Pakyong, April 21: A mini marathon promoting the message of “Nasha Mukta Sikkim” (Drug-Free Sikkim) was organised at Linkey under the Linkey–Parkha Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU) on Monday as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Government Secondary School, Linkey. The event brought together people of all age groups to raise awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse while encouraging a healthy, active, and drug-free lifestyle.
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| MLA Pamin Lepcha flags off the mini marathon at Linkey in Pakyong district as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Government Secondary School, promoting the “Nasha Mukta Sikkim” campaign. (Image: DIO Pakyong) |
The marathon was flagged off by MLA of Gnathang–Machong and Advisor to the Social Welfare Department and the Women, Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan Welfare Department, Pamin Lepcha, who appreciated the organisers for combining sports with a meaningful social message.
Held under the theme “Together We Run, Together We Rise,” the event witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, youth, senior citizens, teachers, local residents, and community leaders. The strong public response reflected the growing commitment of the people of Sikkim towards supporting the state's campaign against drug abuse and promoting healthier communities.
Addressing the gathering, organisers highlighted the importance of collective action in combating substance abuse, particularly among young people. They stressed that awareness campaigns, community participation, and positive recreational activities such as sports play a vital role in steering youth away from addiction and encouraging them to adopt healthy lifestyles.
The marathon formed part of the ongoing Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Government Secondary School, Linkey, adding a social awareness dimension to the commemorative events. Participants carried the message of unity, fitness, and social responsibility as they ran through designated routes in Linkey, symbolising the community's shared commitment to building a drug-free society.
A large number of local residents lined the route to cheer on the participants, while volunteers and organisers ensured the smooth conduct of the programme. The event fostered a spirit of togetherness and highlighted the role of schools and local communities in promoting awareness on important social issues.
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Officials noted that the “Nasha Mukta Sikkim” campaign aligns with the state government's broader efforts to prevent substance abuse through education, public awareness, and community engagement. They said empowering young people with the right values and providing opportunities for sports and positive activities are essential in creating a safe and healthy society.
Organisers expressed gratitude to all participants, volunteers, local authorities, and community members for making the programme a success. They said the marathon served as a reminder that building a drug-free Sikkim requires the collective participation of individuals, families, educational institutions, and communities working together towards a common goal.
The event concluded with renewed calls for continued public support in spreading awareness against drug abuse and fostering a healthier, more responsible, and socially conscious generation across the state.
