Akashvani Kohima on May 8 celebrated its 90 years of broadcasting in India by organising “Akashvani Marathon” on May 8. The event was aimed at promoting national unity in line with the vision of a healthy and active India while also encouraging fitness and public participation.

During the flagging off ceremony at Old MLA Junction, Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, B Henok Buchem said that the event is not only a milestone in broadcasting history but also a celebration of unity. He added that the marathon is of voices, music, news, and stories reaching millions of people through broadcasting over the decades.

Buchem congratulated Akashvani for public service in delivering news and programmes that connect people across the country.

Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland, Kethosituo Sekhose also graced the closing ceremony as the special guest. Sekhose highlighted about how radio has connected people through generations yet remains an important source of information, particularly in rural areas.

Sekhose also congratulated Akashvani Kohima for its longstanding service. He emphasised the importance of fitness and encouraged citizens to contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 through healthy living and active participation in nation-building.

Executive Khriesaneisa Rutsa highlighted the significance of the 90-year milestone of Akashvani. He noted that broadcasting in India began with the establishment of the Indian Broadcasting Company in 1927, which later became the Indian State Broadcasting Service in 1930, and was subsequently renamed All India Radio in 1936. In 2022, the organisation officially adopted the name Akashvani.

Rutsa further informed that Akashvani Kohima completed 63 years of service in January 2026. Since June 2025, the station has been organising a series of activities to commemorate 90 years of broadcasting, including special programmes featuring former broadcasters and experts, essay competitions for schools, folk song competitions involving Naga tribal student bodies, and Hindi film song competitions.

He also noted that through its popular programme, My Beloved Village, Akashvani Kohima has reached audiences across all districts and many remote villages of Nagaland. At present, the station broadcasts more than 55 programmes through its two channels — the Primary Channel and FM Tragopan.

Rutsa stated that the marathon was organised to create awareness about the rich legacy of Akashvani while also promoting fitness and healthy living.

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On behalf of the Head of Office and Head of Programme, Akashvani Kohima, he expressed gratitude to the Kohima District Administration, Traffic Police, Chief Medical Officer’s Office, the partners and sponsor India, participating schools, media personnel, volunteers, and all staff members of Akashvani Kohima for their support and cooperation in making the event a success.

He also conveyed special appreciation to Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Kethosituo Sekhose.

The event was organised in partnership with the National Health Mission under the Department of Health and Family Welfare Nagaland and Miachieo Market, Peraciezie. The State Bank of India, Regional Business Office, Dimapur Region, was the event sponsor.

Altogether 180 students from six government schools participated in the event. The schools included Government High School, PWD Colony; Government High School, Chandmari; Dr. Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School, Seikhazou; T.M. Government High School; PM SHRI Government High School New Market; and Government High School Forest Colony.

Winners in the Boys category:

1st Ketouselie from TM Govt High School (11 min 07 sec)

2nd Muying Phom, Govt High School PWD Colony (11 min 09 sec)

3rd Pherongwi, N Kire Govt Hr Sec School Seikhazou (11 min 10 sec)

Winners in the Girls’ category:

1st Vibeizonuo Nienu N Kire, Govt Hr Sec School Seikhazou (14 min 18 sec)

2nd Yanhola, Govt High School Chandmari, (14 min 56 sec)

3rd Avisi Kire N Kire, Govt Hr Sec School Seikhazou (15 min 28 sec)

Five consolation cash prizes were also awarded in each category. Staff members of Akashvani Kohima also participated in the marathon.