
In an inspiring display of determination, discipline, and unity, Gunchu Institute successfully organized the Marathon Race 2025 under the powerful theme “Don’t Let Drugs Take Away Your Dreams” at Kangpokpi on Saturday morning.
The event, held in collaboration with the Kangpokpi District Police, Kangpokpi Youth Union (KYU), KSO Sadar Hills, HinTwi, Oracle, and Selnou Gym, drew overwhelming participation from energetic youths across various districts. The marathon sought not only to promote physical fitness but also to spread awareness about the growing menace of drug abuse among the youth — a pressing issue in Manipur.
The race began at dawn, with boys covering a 7 km stretch from Keithelmanbi Military Colony Ground to Thomas Ground, Kangpokpi, and girls running 5 km from Kalapahar to Thomas Ground. Cheers echoed through the routes as participants showcased both stamina and spirit in support of a drug-free society.
SDPO Kangpokpi, Lhunminlal Khongsai, MPS flagged off the boy's marathon race at Keithelmanbi Military Colony while OC Kangpokpi, Inspector H. Kipgen flagged off the girl's marathon race at Kalapahar.
In the Boys’ Category, Lungtiplung Phaomei from Noney District Headquarter emerged as the winner, followed by Sujal Subedi from Charhajare, Kangpokpi District as the 1st Runner-Up, and Thaorilung Panmei from Noney District Headquarter as the 2nd Runner-Up.
In the Girls’ Category, Phalhoineng Kipgen from H Jangmunnom Village, Kangpokpi District clinched the top position, while Themnunkim Lhouvum from Keithelmanbi Military Colony and Lamchunngai Kipgen from Lower Khengjang Village secured the 1st and 2nd Runner-Up positions respectively.
The winners were felicitated with cash prizes and certificates — ₹5,000 for the first place, ₹3,000 for the second, and ₹2,000 for the third — while participants ranking fourth to tenth received certificates in recognition of their effort and enthusiasm.
Speaking at the event, Boilen Chongloi, Chaplian of Gunchu Coaching Institute emphasized that the marathon was not just a competition but a movement to steer the youth away from drugs and towards dreams, discipline, and determination. The collaboration with local bodies and law enforcement underscored a united community effort to fight the drug crisis through positive engagement.
The successful conclusion of Marathon 2025 marked yet another milestone for Gunchu Institute in shaping and inspiring young minds — proving once again that sports can be a powerful medium for social change and awareness.

The Hills Journal
K. Salbung, Churachandpur
Manipur-795128