Sonipat, March 30, 2025 – Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated the Sonipat Half Marathon at Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology on Sunday, emphasizing the state’s determined effort to combat drug abuse. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, he stated that the primary objective of such events is to raise awareness against narcotics, ultimately aiming to make Haryana a drug-free state. He passionately called upon the entire society to unite in this crucial fight. The Chief Minister also extended his best wishes to the people of Haryana for the Navratri festival.
“This marathon inspires us to walk together, promotes awareness about sports, and mobilizes the entire society against drugs,” Chief Minister Saini remarked. “Such events not only foster social awareness but also instill enthusiasm and vibrancy within us all. A healthy individual builds a healthy society, and a healthy society is the first step towards the development and progress of a state and nation. For a healthy society, it is essential to eradicate social evils like drug abuse. With this objective in mind, we have expanded sports facilities in the state, promoted sports, and launched campaigns to keep the youth and all citizens away from the menace of drugs. This marathon is a part of that very campaign.”
Statewide Initiatives to Promote Fitness
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini highlighted the ongoing organization of marathons and ‘Raahgiri’ events across the state, aimed at continuously raising public awareness about fitness. He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Fit India” program, launched on August 29, 2019, which encourages citizens to prioritize their health. The Chief Minister expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for making fitness an integral part of people’s lifestyles. He also noted India’s contribution to global wellness through yoga. The large turnout at the marathon, he said, demonstrates the public’s commitment to fitness.
Relentless Action Against Drug Abuse
Chief Minister Saini reiterated the Haryana government’s relentless efforts against drug abuse. He emphasized collaboration with saints, spiritual leaders, NGOs, and civil society organizations in this fight. To keep the youth away from drugs, the government is promoting sports. Mission teams have been formed from the village and ward levels to the state level for drug de-addiction and rehabilitation. The “Dhakad” program has been initiated in colleges, universities, and educational institutions.
Haryana Uday Program: A Massive Outreach
Chief Minister Saini explained that the marathon was organized under the Haryana government’s “Haryana Uday” program. Under this initiative, 2,482 programs have been conducted across the state, involving 1.65 million people. This has proven to be Haryana’s largest outreach program to date, encompassing ‘Raahgiri,’ cyclothons, sports competitions in crime and drug-affected areas, drug-free campaigns, senior citizen adoption, and police schools.
Inclusivity and Inspiration
The Chief Minister expressed delight at the participation of thousands of people from across the city, including children and senior citizens. He particularly praised the enthusiasm of senior citizens aged 60 to 80, whose participation served as an inspiration to others. He congratulated the winners of the 21km, 10km, and 5km marathons and all participants. He also commended the Sonipat district administration for the successful organization of the event.
Cultural Performances
During the half marathon, students presented various cultural performances. Singer MD performed songs against drug abuse. Teams from different schools performed, starting with Saraswati Vandana and continuing with other musical presentations. Students from Rai Sports School also showcased their gymnastic skills.
Cabinet Minister Arvind Sharma, BJP State President Mohan Lal Baroli, Sonipat MLA Nikhil Madan, Kharkhoda MLA Pawan Kharkhoda, Gannaur MLA Devendra Kadian, Mayor Rajiv Jain, District and Sessions Judge Pramod Goyal, OSD Pankaj Nain, DC Dr. Manoj Kumar, and other dignitaries were present at the event.
