The message of health, youth participation and collective growth took centre stage in Wokha on August 20 as 86 runners participated in the ‘One Nagaland Run 5K’ organised by the NPF Wokha District Youth Wing under the theme “Running Together, Growing Together.”

The event, organised in pursuance of the directive of the NPF Central Youth Wing, saw 111 registrations, of which 86 runners took part in the 5K run. The participants comprised 58 men and 28 women.

Dr Chumben Murry, Advisor to the Chief Minister of Nagaland and Senior Vice President of the NPF Central Office Bearers, flagged off the run as the special guest.

Speaking on the occasion, Murry appreciated the NPF Wokha Youth Division and the Wokha Athletic Association for organising the event, particularly its focus on promoting health and youth engagement.

He referred to the recent health camps conducted by the NPF youth wing across four constituencies in Wokha district and said the run was part of a broader effort to encourage a healthy and active society.

“Government politics is not only about running the government, but it should also have feelings for the citizens, particularly the youth,” Murry said, emphasising the importance of initiatives that directly engage with and benefit the people.

He also welcomed the participation recorded for the run, noting that while 111 participants had registered, 86 runners actually took part. He said the turnout was encouraging and that the participation of the runners could send a positive message to the wider public about the importance of being health conscious.

The programme began with a dedication prayer led by Lilly Lotha, Working President of NPF Wokha Division.

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In the men’s category, Renthungo Tsanglao emerged winner with a timing of 16:18 minutes, followed by Abemo Kithan with 16:49 minutes and Nchumbemo C. Humtsoe with 17:20 minutes.

Mercy Ezung secured the women’s title with a timing of 20:38 minutes. Chumbeno R. Kikon finished second in 20:53 minutes, while Jemie Y took third place with 21:27 minutes.

At the prize distribution ceremony, Myingthungo Kikon, Chairperson of Wokha Town Council, attended as patron. He expressed appreciation to all those who extended physical, mental and financial support towards the event.

Kikon said the programme would not have been successful without the collective support of the organisers, participants and well-wishers. Encouraging the runners, he said winning should not be the sole focus, as participation itself had made the event meaningful and provided a positive example for the community.

The ceremony was also attended by John Ezung, Vice President (COB) and Acting President of NPF Wokha Division; Zubenthung T Ngullie, President of Lotha Students’ Union; and Benri Tsopoe, Vice President of Lotha Youth Hoho, who exhorted the gathering.

Amos Odyuo, President of NPF Youth Wing Wokha Division, expressed gratitude to the medical team, police personnel and individuals who extended logistical support, while thanking all participants for contributing to the success of the event.