Pakyong, February 15, 2026: Reinforcing the message of a healthy lifestyle and collective action against substance abuse, Sikkim Minister for Education, Sports & Youth Affairs, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Raju Basnet, on Sunday flagged off the Intra-Constituency Marathon of Namcheybong Constituency at Chengay Senti in Pakyong district. Organised under the theme “Run Together for a Drug-Free Sikkim,” the event brought together youth, local leaders, and residents in a united campaign to promote fitness and spread awareness about the dangers of drug abuse.
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| Minister Raju Basnet poses with young winners during the prize distribution ceremony at the anti-drug marathon in Pakyong, Sikkim. (Image: DIO Pakyong) |
The 10-kilometre marathon was organised by the youth of Senti, Chengay, Upper Aho Yangtam, and Kadamtam, reflecting the growing involvement of local communities in supporting social awareness initiatives. Participants from different age groups enthusiastically took part in the run, demonstrating their commitment to building a healthier, safer, and drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering after flagging off the marathon, Minister Raju Basnet emphasised the vital role that sports and physical activities can play in steering young people away from substance abuse. He said that encouraging youth to participate in sports not only promotes physical fitness but also instils discipline, confidence, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility.
The Minister stressed that the fight against drug abuse cannot be won by the government alone and requires the active participation of families, educational institutions, local communities, and youth organisations. He called upon everyone to work collectively in creating an environment that inspires young people to pursue healthy lifestyles and positive aspirations.
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Commending the organisers, Basnet praised the youth groups for successfully combining fitness with social awareness. He noted that initiatives such as the marathon serve as effective platforms to educate the public about the harmful effects of drugs while encouraging community participation and social responsibility.
The programme was attended by Panchayat members, OSD to MLA Hari Rizal, OSD (Skill Development) Bimal Neopaney, SHO Pakyong Pradeep Chettri, members of the organising committee, local residents, and a large number of participants who joined the awareness campaign.
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony, where winners and participants were felicitated for their enthusiastic involvement. Organisers expressed hope that the marathon would inspire similar community-led initiatives across the state, further strengthening Sikkim's vision of becoming a drug-free, healthy, and socially responsible society through active youth participation and public awareness.
