Shillong, December 14: The 5th edition of the Assam Rifles Half Marathon 2025 was successfully organised on Sunday at the Headquarters of the Directorate General Assam Rifles (DGAR), Laitkor, Shillong, as part of efforts to promote the “Fit India Movement.”
First conducted in 2021, the annual event has grown significantly in scale and popularity, attracting running enthusiasts from across the country. This year’s marathon witnessed participation from over 3,000 runners representing 26 States and two Union Territories, highlighting the spirit of national unity and diversity.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the East Khasi Hills, the event was attended by dignitaries from the government, armed forces, and volunteers from different parts of India.
The Half Marathon was organised in three categories — Cloud Chase (21 km), Pine Path (10 km), and Crystal Stream (5 km).
The 21 km run was flagged off by Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General Assam Rifles, along with Mrs Vibha Lakhera, President, ARWWA.
The 10 km and 5 km runs were flagged off by Maj Gen Jai Singh Bainsla, SM, ADG Assam Rifles, Mr Satish Nambiar, Executive Director & State Head (North East), Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Mr Zubin Garg, CGM (Corporate Communication), IOCL, Mumbai, and Brigadier Sachindra Tiwari, Brigadier Administration, HQ DGAR, along with Mrs Tiwari.
A total of 3,038 runners participated in the event, including 559 runners in the 21 km category, 1,502 in the 10 km run, and 977 in the 5 km run. All participants received medals, certificates, and commemorative T-shirts.
Cash prizes worth ₹20 lakh were awarded to 48 winners across various categories, in addition to several consolation prizes.
In the overall 21 km category, Mr Sandeep Devrari of 20 Kumaon, Indian Army, emerged as the winner in the men’s section with a timing of 1 hour 7 minutes, while Ms Tamsi Singh of Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, secured first place in the women’s category with a timing of 1 hour 23 minutes.
The event was graced by Air Marshal Surat Singh, AVSM, VM, VSM, AOC-in-C Eastern Air Command, and Mrs Nisha Singh, President, AFFWA (Eastern Air Command), as the Chief Guests. The Air Marshal lauded the enthusiasm and sporting spirit of the participants and presented prizes to winners in the 21 km and 10 km categories.
Popularly known as the “Sentinels of the North East,” the Assam Rifles continues to play an active role in promoting peace, development, and community engagement in the region. Speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera said the event aims to foster a culture of fitness, wellness, and togetherness in the North East, adding that participation has more than doubled compared to the previous year, reflecting the growing success of the initiative.
