BHUBANESWAR, JAN 25: More than 16,000 people, representing all walks of life, participated in the India Mini Marathon organised by Navratna PSU National Aluminium Company (Nalco) in the Capital City on Sunday.
The participants shouted “I for India” all along the 5-km stretch between Janata Maidan and Kalinga Stadium in the temple city on Sunday morning.
Though similar marathons were simultaneously held in 54 cities across the country today, no other city evoked the kind of response seen in the Capital City of Odisha.
While in most of the cities armed forces were saddled with the organizational responsibility, in Bhubaneswar, the Union Government entrusted the task to Navratna PSU Nalco, which in turn drafted in more than 100 organisations and institutions for the noble cause.
In turn, the aluminium major roped in more than 100 organizations and institutions for the noble cause. Thanks to wide support from media, hundreds of youngsters came forward voluntarily to accomplish the intent and purpose behind the event.
Governor S C Jamir flagged off the marathon in the presence of Bhubaneswar MP Prasanna Patasani and Nalco Chairman-cum-Managing Director Tapan Kumar Chand.
The Governor appreciated Nalco’s role, and the concerted efforts put in by others, which resulted in such unprecedented response. There was no competition, only a demonstration of love for the nation.
“Bhubaneswar had never witnessed such participation, imbued in patriotic fervor, in a mini marathon, ever before,” said the Nalco CMD, crediting the success to the team work demonstrated by various public sector undertakings, corporate houses, banks, insurance companies, schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, NGOs, CISF & police personnel, clubs and forums.
The concluding function was graced by Sports and Youth Services Minister Sudam Marandi, Bhubaneswar MP, heads of various corporate houses and institutions. Noted sports persons and celebrities took part in the run.
