Leh, Jul 31: Over 300 runners took to the roads of Leh on Wednesday morning as the University of Ladakh, in association with the J\&K AIDS Control Society, hosted the UT Level Red Run 2025. The 5-kilometer race commenced from Gurdwara Pathar Sahib and culminated at the Leh Campus of the University, drawing students from across institutions in Leh and Kargil districts.
The Red Run served as more than just a race, offering a dynamic platform to advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness, bolster mental health discourse, and encourage physical fitness among the youth of the region. Participants included contingents from Government Degree Colleges of Kargil, Drass, Sankoo, and Khaltse, as well as students from EJM College, Central Institute of Buddhist Studies, the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa, and both campuses of the University of Ladakh.
Prof. Saket Khushwaha, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ladakh, addressed the crowd during the closing ceremony, urging young people to embrace a lifestyle that supports both mental and physical well-being. Madan Lal, Deputy Director (Finance) of the J\&K AIDS Control Society, attended the event as Guest of Honour, joined by several other officials and faculty members.
In the competitive segment of the Red Run, Ghulam Haider from the Kargil Campus emerged as the winner in the Men’s Category, followed by Mohammad Hassan of GDC Drass and Padma Namgyal from the National Institute of Sowa Rigpa. On the Women’s side, Skarma Idong Lanza from EJM College claimed first place, with Kulsuma Banoo of GDC Kargil and Ishey Dolker of CIBS Leh trailing close behind. All top finishers received medals and certificates to honor their efforts.
Complementing the athletic spirit, the event featured two awareness sessions. Dr. Tashi Tundup, Consultant Psychiatrist at SNM Hospital Leh, spoke on mental health challenges among youth, while Ms. Stanzin Dolma of the hospital’s ICTC unit provided insights on HIV/AIDS prevention and education.
Dr. Jigmat Dachen, Dean of Student Welfare, opened the program with a welcome address, setting the tone for a day centered on community health. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Ashu Rajput, Nodal Officer of the Red Run Club. The closing celebration saw an energetic musical performance by Ilyaz Khan and his band, leaving participants with high spirits and a renewed sense of purpose.
