Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday felicitated sportspersons from the state for their medal-winning performances at national and international competitions, saying their achievements had brought recognition to Haryana and the country.
Saini flagged off the marathon and said the massive participation had sent a strong message against drug abuse. “A resounding voice against drugs has risen from the land of Faridabad through the Namo Marathon today,” he said, adding that the participants’ steps represented Haryana’s collective resolve against drugs. Deputy Commissioner Ayush Sinha, who led the district administration’s preparations, said before the marathon that it aimed to take the message of “Namo Haryana Ka Yahi Armaan, Nasha Mukt Rahe Har Insaan” to every section of society and particularly inspire youth to embrace sports, adopt a healthy lifestyle and stay away from drugs. Saini later listened to the 138th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s monthly radio programme, “Mann Ki Baat,” in Gurugram.
The felicitation programme was organised under the state government’s Seva Sankalp Abhiyan at the Surajkund Mela Ground in Faridabad. Saini congratulated the athletes and wrestlers and extended his best wishes for their continued success. He urged youth to focus on sports, education, skills, employment, innovation and nation-building. He also called upon parents and teachers to maintain regular communication with children, saying the fight against drugs was a collective responsibility of families, schools and communities, and not just the government or police. During the programme, Saini administered a pledge to participants to stay away from drugs and encourage their family members, friends and others to do the same.
More than 135,000 people participated in the “Drug-Free Haryana Faridabad Namo Marathon-2026” at Surajkund on Sunday, with Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini calling upon the youth to stay away from drugs and channelise their energy towards sports, education, skills, employment and nation-building, organisers said. Saini said drugs not only weaken the body but also affect families and society by taking away the dreams and potential of young people. He said the marathon had gone beyond being a sporting event and become a campaign for de-addiction, fitness and social awareness.
