More than 11,500 participate in Abujhmad Peace Marathon

Central Chronicle News
Bhilai, Feb 27: With more than 11,500 participants from different states, the Abujhmad Peace Marathon in Bastar has become a much-awaited event for marathon enthusiasts in the country. The third edition of the 21 km half marathon, organised by District Administration, Narainpur on Saturday began at Narainpur early in the morning and ended at village Basing in Orcha block.
Meant to spread the message of peace in Bastar region, the Abujhmad Peace Marathonthat has Run For Peace as its catchline, has been supported by SAIL-Bhilai Steel Plant as a major sponsor of the event.
The Abujhmad Peace Marathon this year had participants from Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala and other states, besides local participants from Narainpur and nearby areas. There were separate categories for men, women and for local runners in the half-marathon. The runners were cheered by local population that turned up in large numbers.
SAIL-BSP that has been carrying out various activities in this region for many years as part of its corporate social responsibility has been extending support to Peace Marathon by way of sponsorship. It is worth mentioning that SAIL-BSP has been carrying out CSR activities in 71 Mines Buffer Zone villages including 49 in Rajhara Mines area and 22 in Rowghat Mines area in Bastar region with an emphasis on education of tribals, medical & health services, installing solar pumps for drinking water, sports & cultural activities, and above all for employment and skill generation. By extending support to Abujhmad Peace Marathon as a major sponsor, SAIL-BSP has re-affirmed its commitment to peace and development in the interior tribal region of Bastar.
Member of Parliament from Bastar, Deepak Baij was the chief guest of the Abujhmad Peace Marathonevent. PhoolodeviNetam, MP, Rajya Sabha and Chandan Kashyap, MLA from Narainpur and Chairman, Hastashilp Vikas Board and P Sundaraj, IG, Bastar were also present, along with Commissioner, Bastar and District Collector, Narainpur. Senior officials from SAIL-BSP’s Mines Dept including Chief General Manager, Iron Ore Complex, TapanSutradhar, V Chenna Reddy, GM (Mines) and others were also present on the occasion. A cultural programme showcasing performing arts by tribals and other displays for participants to familiarise themselves with the tribal culture of Bastar had been organised a day earlier, i.e. on February 26, 2021. Proper arrangements had been made by the organisers including facilities for participants to stay and control rooms along the marathon route.