Manipur University, 30/08/2025: The Department of Physical Education and Sports Science (PESS), Manipur University, Canchipur, successfully organized a Half Marathon on 30th August 2025 as part of the ongoing celebrations for National Sports Day 2025. The event commenced at 7:00 a.m. from the Traffic Island, Manipur University, and was held in collaboration with the Fit India Campaign Committee (FICC), Fit India Club (FIC), and the National Service Scheme (NSS) Cell, Manipur University.
This year’s celebration followed the national theme “Ek Ghanta Khel Ke Maidan Mein!” under the aegis of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Ministry of Higher Education, Government of India.
The program was graced by several esteemed dignitaries, including Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Manipur University; Prof. M. Premjit Singh, Registrar; Prof. L. Thambal Singh, Head, Department of PESS; Dr. L. Santosh Singh, NSS Coordinator & Convener, FICC & FIC; Dr. Y. Shantikumar Singh, Security Officer; Dr. L. Pungding, Manipur University; Prof. L. Jibon Kumar Sharma; Prof. M. Chourjit Singh; Dr. Prabhakar Reddy, IGNTU; Dr. R. K. Suresh Singh, Cultural Coordinator; and Dr. H. Ajit Singh.
The event began with a welcome address by Prof. L. Thambal Singh, who emphasized the importance of participation over victory, highlighting the true spirit of sportsmanship. This was followed by remarks from Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, who underscored that the Half Marathon is not just a race for medals, but a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and perseverance. He highlighted the health benefits of marathon running, including improved cardiovascular fitness, enhanced metabolism, stronger immunity, and the development of personal qualities like perseverance and self-efficacy.
The Half Marathon was officially flagged off by the Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, who extended his blessings and best wishes to all participants in both Men’s and Women’s categories. The event was technically supported and coordinated by Dr. Y. Shantikumar Singh, Dr. L. Pungding, and their team, under the overall arrangements made by Dr. L. Santosh Singh, NSS Coordinator and Convener, FICC & FIC.
At the conclusion of the race, the winners were announced:
Men’s Category:
Pourimyibe Pame – Gold Medal
Elangbam Rakesh Singh – Silver Medal
Yathem Zimik – Bronze Medal
Women’s Category:
Irom Bijaya Devi – Gold Medal
Umelly Mangshatabam – Silver Medal
Athinin Davis – Bronze Medal
In addition, the Top 7 performers in both Men’s and Women’s categories were also recognized. Prizes were distributed by dignitaries: Prof. M. Premjit Singh, Registrar, presented awards to winners in the Women’s Category, while Prof. N. Lokendra Singh, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, awarded the winners in the Men’s Category. Other prizes and recognitions were conferred by the presidium members.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. L. Pungding, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all dignitaries, organizers, volunteers, and athletes for making the Half Marathon a resounding success.
SEE MORE PHOTOS: https://www.manipuruniv.ac.in/gallery/1179