Vikram Ditya Sharma/Ferozepur

The historic border town, today witnessed an inspiring spectacle of unity and patriotism as the Indian Army’s Golden Arrow Division successfully conducted ‘Ferozepur Border Marathon - 2025’. The event, held with the twin objectives of honouring India’s martyrs and combating the growing menace of drug abuse, drew overwhelming participation and acclaim from across the nation.

The marathon was flagged off by Major General RS Manral, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Golden Arrow Division, in the presence of Olympian Pargat Singh (Padma Shri & Arjuna Awardee), senior BJP leader Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi, Ex-MLA Raminder Singh Awla, Prof Jagmohan Singh, Col Krishan Badhwar (Retd) Ultra Marathon Runner and Maj DP Singh (Retd) India’s renowned Blade Runner. Senior civil administration officials and representatives of Punjab Police also graced the occasion, extending their wholehearted support to the noble cause.

Thousands of runners from diverse walks of life - including elite athletes, serving soldiers, youth influencers, and patriotic citizens - came together to reaffirm a collective pledge for a drug-free and United India. Set against the symbolic backdrop of this border district’s proud heritage, the marathon route passed through locations of deep national significance. Participants ran past the historic Ferozepur Fort and culminated their run at the National Martyrs’ Memorial, Hussainiwala - the sacred resting place of Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Shaheed Sukhdev, and Shaheed Rajguru. The atmosphere was charged with emotion and reverence as participants paid floral tributes to the immortal heroes.

Echoing the spirit of sacrifice and resilience, Major General R S Manral commended the participants for their fervent support, stating that the event not only promoted physical fitness and awareness but also reaffirmed the region’s enduring spirit of patriotism. He emphasized that the fight against drug abuse is a national mission, requiring collective resolve and cooperation across communities, civil authorities, and security forces alike.

The event featured three categories - Half Marathon, 21 km, 10 km and 5 km runs which attracted more than 5,000 participants from various states and successfully combined sportsmanship, remembrance, and social responsibility while promoting border tourism and Ferozepur’s cultural heritage.