CRPF’s 10-Km Marathon in Conflict-Hit Kangpokpi Promotes Fitness, Unity and Community Spirit

A 10-km marathon organised by the 94 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) under the Khelo India, Sports Authority of India (SAI) and SPANDAN (Sports for Peace And Development Across Nations) themes concluded successfully in Kangpokpi on Wednesday, drawing more than 250 runners and sports enthusiasts.

The event, held at Brigadier Thomas Ground, Kangpokpi, was aimed at promoting physical fitness, sportsmanship, healthy living and greater community participation through sports.

The marathon was conducted under the direction of the Inspector General of Police, Manipur-Nagaland Sector, and the guidance of the Commandant, 94 Battalion CRPF.

The race began at Brigadier Thomas Ground and proceeded along NH-2 towards Kalapahar, where participants collected tokens before returning to the starting point. Drinking water facilities were arranged at four locations along the route.

The event also witnessed the participation of several prominent personalities, including Sadar Hills Autonomous District Council CEO, James Doujapao Haokip, MCS, former Indian Super League footballer Boithang Haokip, Sadar Hills Football Academy Founder, Elminhao Kilong, Commandant of 112 Battalion CRPF Ranjan Kumar Barua, 2IC of 94 Battalion CRPF Arvind Singh Yadav, Deputy Commandant Jai Prakash Singh and OC-D/94 Battalion CRPF Inspector Rakesh Ranjan Singh, besides local ward representatives, sports club office-bearers and other dignitaries.

Addressing the gathering, James Doujapao Haokip congratulated the CRPF for organising the marathon and creating a platform that brought together young people, sports enthusiasts and members of the community through a positive sporting initiative.

He said sporting events such as the marathon play an important role in encouraging young people to embrace discipline, physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle, while also fostering a stronger sense of community participation and unity.

Haokip also appreciated the participation of eminent sportspersons and distinguished guests, saying their presence would inspire aspiring athletes and encourage the younger generation to pursue sports with greater dedication.

He congratulated all the winners and participants for their determination and sporting spirit, and expressed hope that such initiatives would continue to provide opportunities for people, particularly the youth, to engage in constructive and healthy activities.

At the conclusion of the race, the top three finishers were felicitated with cash prizes, medals and certificates.

L. Lunminlal Khongsai secured the first position and received a cash prize of ₹10,000, a gold medal and a certificate. Lamkhotinsei Kipgen finished second and received ₹6,000, a silver medal and a certificate, while Lamginmang Vaiphei secured third position with ₹4,000, a bronze medal and a certificate.

Certificates were also distributed to the Top 50 finishers in recognition of their performance.

The CRPF said the successful conduct of the marathon reflected its commitment to promoting sports, physical fitness, community participation and healthy living under the spirit of Khelo India, SAI and SPANDAN.

The event concluded amid enthusiasm and a strong display of sporting spirit among participants and the local community.