At least 2 lakh people participated in the Faridabad Namo Half Marathon-2026 at the Surajkund Mela Ground on Sunday, with Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini flagging off the races organised around the message of a drug-free Haryana.
“Our resolve is to stay away from drugs and make our youth and Haryana drug-free. I can see your enthusiasm. Saini also administered a pledge to participants, calling upon them to ensure that they neither consume drugs nor allow others to do so. The administration had also made special provisions for athletes with disabilities.
He said more than 2 lakh people had registered for the marathon and participated in the event. Wheelchair and amputee participants were given dedicated categories in the 10-km and 21-km races, with special prizes for outstanding performances.
Addressing participants after flagging off the races, Saini said the turnout reflected the enthusiasm of the city’s youth and urged people to stay away from drugs. It truly makes me happy,” Saini said. He said the energy of the youth should be channelled towards nation-building. “Drug-free Haryana is our resolve, healthy Haryana is our identity and developed India is our goal,” the chief minister said. The chief minister also said the event was intended to reinforce the message of healthy living and a drug-free society among young people. Deputy commissioner Ayush Sinha said the marathon had been organised to take the message of a drug-free Haryana to different sections of society and encourage young people to adopt sports and a healthy lifestyle. He said the large participation demonstrated public support for the campaign.
