‘Kashmir Marathon emerging as notable economic catalyst’
Srinagar: In a stern message to security and administrative officials, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday called for adopting a 360-degree approach to completely dismantle terrorism and its ecosystem in Jammu and Kashmir.
Chairing a high-level security review meeting in Srinagar on Sunday, Sinha urged coordinated efforts between civil and police administrations to ensure effective law and order and the elimination of terror networks.
The meeting was attended by Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Nalin Prabhat, DGP; S.J.M. Gillani, Special Director General (Coordination), PHQ J&K; Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary, Home; Nitish Kumar, ADGP CID; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor; Vidhi Kumar Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; DIGs, Deputy Commissioners and SSPs of Kashmir Division.
Lieutenant Governor asserted that officers should continuously assess the circumstances on the ground and remain alert and prepared to eliminate terrorism from the valley. He took a comprehensive review of various aspects of security scenarios with the officers and called for concerted efforts to achieve the goal of a terrorism-free Jammu Kashmir.
He directed the Civil Administration and Police to work shoulder to shoulder for effective law and order maintenance, security, and the success of anti-terror operations.
“We must adopt a 360-degree approach to completely dismantle terrorism and its support system,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
Lieutenant Governor emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy to counter fake news and false narratives. He also directed the Police and district administrations to connect youth with self-employment opportunities and ensure quality disposal of grievances of the people.
The meeting also discussed the winter preparedness of District Administrations. The Lieutenant Governor exhorted the officials to remain vigilant and ready to counter any threat during the winter season. The Lieutenant Governor commended the J&K Police personnel for displaying professional excellence in ensuring the integrity of the nation and safety of all citizens.
Meanwhile, LG Manoj Sinha today said the Kashmir Marathon is fast emerging as a “major economic catalyst” for Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector, symbolizing both athletic excellence and cultural unity.
The remark came as Sinha felicitated the winners of this year’s marathon — the second edition of the international event launched last year. The full and half marathons of 42 and 21 kilometres, respectively, were organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department.
An official spokesperson said the event witnessed participation from 1,100 runners representing 27 states and Union Territories, along with 11 countries, making it a truly global spectacle.
Addressing the participants, the Lieutenant Governor said the spirit displayed by the runners was a testament to the event’s growing popularity and its ability to foster brotherhood through shared experiences.
“Within two years of its launch, the Kashmir Marathon has become one of the most prestigious running tournaments in the country. It has infused a sense of pride and passion among the people and is inspiring a new generation of runners,” Sinha said.
Expressing optimism about the marathon’s wider impact, Sinha said it will not only attract sports enthusiasts but also contribute significantly to tourism and the local economy. “The Kashmir Marathon will serve as a major economic catalyst for our tourism sector,” he added.
LG called upon residents to leverage the event as a platform to showcase Jammu and Kashmir’s unique identity to the world. “Let us use this international event to highlight our priceless cultural heritage, the transformation underway, and our achievements,” he said.
He further noted that sectors such as handicrafts, handloom, and tourism could find new global opportunities through the marathon’s growing visibility and appeal, reinforcing Jammu and Kashmir’s reputation as a destination of both beauty and resilience.
Film actor, Suniel Shetty; prominent citizens, sportspersons and youth in large number also attended the felicitation ceremony.
