Punjab National Bank's Soldierathon 2026 Honors Armed Forces with Massive Half-Marathon in Delhi
In a grand celebration of its 132nd foundation day, Punjab National Bank (PNB) organized the second edition of the Soldierathon 2026 half-marathon at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. The event, themed 'PNB Soldierathon 2026, Run For Soldiers,' was held in collaboration with the Indian Armed Forces to pay tribute to the heroes of Operation Sindoor and promote national fitness.
Over 27,000 Participants Gather for Fitness and Tribute
Mizoram Governor General V.K. Singh (Retd), speaking at the occasion, highlighted the impressive turnout of more than 27,000 people. He emphasized that the Soldierathon was conducted under the Fit India Campaign to raise public awareness about the critical importance of physical well-being. "This event was organized in collaboration with Punjab National Bank. More than 27 thousand people have gathered... Soldierathon was held under the Fit India Campaign to create awareness among people that they need to stay fit, take care of their bodies... The more we spread this, the better it will be," Singh told reporters.
High-Profile Dignitaries and Officials Participate
The event saw participation from notable figures, including Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, and M. Nagaraju, Secretary of the Department of Financial Services under the Ministry of Finance. Their involvement underscored the significance of the initiative in bridging the financial and defense sectors for a common cause of health and honor.
Fit India Sundays on Cycle: A Nationwide Movement
Earlier, on March 15, the 65th edition of the Fit India Sundays on Cycle was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the nation. This cycling event united over 5,000 locations, from Kokrajhar in Odisha to Badal in Punjab and Allepey in the South, bringing together diverse terrains like seas, mountains, deserts, and forests in a single movement.
More than 300 Fit India Champions and Ambassadors, along with special dignitaries, led the cycling activities. In Patna, Bihar's dynamic sports minister, Shreyashi Singh, attended and led by example, as per a press release. The nodal event in New Delhi's Connaught Place attracted over 10,000 participants, creating a festive atmosphere in collaboration with the Raahgiri Foundation, marking the return of Raahgiri Day.
Key Highlights of the Events
- PNB Soldierathon 2026: A half-marathon honoring soldiers and promoting fitness, with over 27,000 attendees.
- Fit India Campaign: Central theme driving awareness for physical health and well-being.
- Nationwide Cycling: The 65th Fit India Sundays on Cycle engaged thousands across India, from Odisha to Punjab.
- Collaborative Efforts: Partnerships with Indian Armed Forces and Raahgiri Foundation enhancing community engagement.
These initiatives reflect a growing national focus on fitness and tribute, leveraging public events to foster unity and health consciousness among citizens.
