CM Nayab Saini Flags Off Anti-Drug Marathon in Yamunanagar; Over 1.16 Lakh Register for Awareness Drive

Yamunanagar, Haryana: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday flagged off a massive anti-drug awareness marathon in Jagadhri, urging people to unite against substance abuse and make Haryana a drug-free state. Organised under the theme “Nashe Se Jung, Yamunanagar Ke Sang” the event witnessed an overwhelming public response, with more than 1.16 lakh registrations, making it one of the largest anti-drug awareness runs in the state.

The marathon commenced from Matka Chowk in Jagadhri, where the Chief Minister officially launched the event and encouraged participants by showering flower petals as they began the run. According to officials, a total of 1,16,451 people registered for the marathon, including 76,411 men and 38,540 women. Of these, 1,15,183 participants took part in the 5-km run, while 1,268 runners competed in the 10-km category.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Saini said drug addiction destroys not only an individual but also affects families and future generations. He reiterated the Haryana government’s commitment to achieving the goal of a “Drug-Free Haryana” and stressed that the campaign requires active participation from every section of society. He also encouraged young people to engage in sports and other constructive activities to build a healthier and stronger nation.

The district administration had made extensive preparations for the event. Major roads and intersections across Jagadhri and Yamunanagar were decorated with lighting, greenery and anti-drug awareness messages. Comprehensive arrangements, including security deployment, traffic management, drinking water facilities and medical support, ensured the marathon concluded smoothly.

Several senior leaders and public representatives attended the programme, including Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana, Yamunanagar MLA Ghanshyam Das Arora, Mayor Suman Bahmani, former minister Kanwar Pal Gurjar, BJP district president Rajesh Sapra, along with senior civil and police officials.

During the marathon, a young girl reportedly lost consciousness amid the large gathering. Responding immediately, Municipal Corporation Additional Commissioner Dheeraj Kumar shifted her to a nearby hospital in his official vehicle, ensuring she received prompt medical treatment. Doctors provided first aid and kept her under observation, while officials confirmed that medical teams remained on alert throughout the event. His swift response was widely appreciated by those present.

The marathon formed part of the Haryana government’s ongoing campaign to spread awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse and to encourage community participation in the fight against addiction.