‘India Mini Marathon at Bhubaneswar’

24/01/2016

Bhubaneswar, 24/01/2016 : ‘I for India’ slogan reverberated all through the 5 km stretch between Janata Maidan and Kalinga Stadium in the temple city of Bhubaneswar this morning. More than 16,000 people, representing all walks of life, participated in the India Mini Marathon to suffuse patriotism. Such marathons were concurrently organized in 54 cities across the country today. While in most of the cities armed forces were saddled with the organizational responsibility, in capital city of Bhubaneswar, Govt. of India entrusted the task to Navratna NALCO.

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.

His Excellency Dr. S.C. Jamir, the Hon’ble Governor of Odisha, flagged off the marathon in the presence of Dr. Prasanna Patasani, MP, Bhubaneswar and Shri Tapan Kumar Chand, CMD of NALCO. The Hon’ble 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,” says Shri Tapan Kumar Chand, 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 Shri Sudam Marandi, Minister for Sports and Youth Services, Govt. of Odisha, Dr. Prasanna Patasani, MP, Bhubaneswar, heads of various corporate houses & institutions. Noted sportspersons and celebrities took part in the run.