The streets of Jammu came alive on Sunday as hundreds of runners laced up their shoes for a cause that hits close to home. The Jammu Half Marathon, organised jointly by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and FICCI-FLO, wasn't just about crossing finish lines; it was about drawing a line against drug abuse.
IGP Bhim Singh Tuti flagged off the event, which saw enthusiastic participation from youth across the city. The energy was palpable as runners of all ages gathered, united by a common goal: spreading awareness about the devastating impact of drugs on families and communities.
"We wanted to take this fight to every doorstep," IGP Tuti explained. "Sports events like these, organized with civil society, help us reach people in ways that traditional campaigns sometimes can't."
What makes this marathon particularly meaningful is its four-stage structure, designed to maximize outreach across different sections of society. It's not a one-day event but a sustained campaign that builds momentum with each stage.
The initiative also has a direct impact on those struggling with addiction. All registration fees collected from participants will be donated to the drug rehabilitation center run by the J&K Police turning every kilometer run into tangible support for recovery efforts.
Arti Chaudhuri, President of FICCI FLO J&K, emphasized the human element behind the initiative. "This is about protecting our youth and supporting families dealing with addiction," she said. "We want people to know they're not alone in this fight. Whether it's preventing someone from starting drugs or helping someone break free, every conversation matters."
The event, titled 'Run for Health 3.0', reflects a growing recognition that tackling drug abuse requires community-wide engagement. It's not just a law enforcement issue it's a social responsibility that needs families, businesses, and civil organizations working together.
For many young participants, the marathon offered a positive outlet and a reminder of healthier life choices. The visible presence of youth at the event sends a powerful counter-message to the drug culture that has affected communities across the region.
The choice of a marathon as the medium is symbolic too. Just as running requires stamina and perseverance, so does the fight against drug abuse. It's a long-distance effort, not a sprint, and success comes from consistent, collective action.
As runners crossed the finish line on Sunday, they weren't just completing a race. They were adding their voices to a growing movement that refuses to let drugs destroy lives and families. With more stages planned, the message is clear: the fight continues, and the community is in it for the long haul.
The Jammu Half Marathon proves that when police, business leaders, and ordinary citizens come together, they can create meaningful change one step at a time.
