The Indian Army’s Spear Corps staged a festive mini‑marathon in the scenic village of Tuting, Arunachal Pradesh, to honor soldiers who died in the 1962 Battle of Kepang La. The “Siang Mini Marathon” ran on Sunday, Nov. 1, and set the tone for Kepang La Day on Nov. 17.
Tuting sits deep in the Upper Siang District, a remote corner of India’s eastern frontier. The village’s rolling hills and lush forests offered a dramatic backdrop as runners tackled 2‑km and 7‑km courses through the Siang Valley. More than 500 participants joined the race, including Indian Army troops, members of the Indo‑Tibet Border Police (ITBP), school children, local women, and young people from the area.
Lt Col Mahendra Raw at the Defence Ministry said the event was “more than a sporting competition.” It symbolized unity, remembrance, and civil‑military harmony, he added. The Spear Corps used the marathon to reaffirm its commitment to building relationships, fitness, and solidarity among border communities while paying tribute to those who fought at Kepang La.
All the running was followed by a celebration ceremony. Winners received medals, certificates and cash prizes. The organisers especially praised the strong turnout of local youth and women, a sign of growing interest in sports and health in this frontier region.
The event also highlighted the Army’s broader ‘Operation Sadbhavana’ program, which promotes education, healthcare and sports across Arunachal Pradesh. The Siang Mini Marathon proved a living example of how military, civilians, and the local community can come together for a common purpose.
As the finish line passed, participants and spectators chanted “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Jai Hind,” underscoring a shared sense of pride and gratitude for the brave soldiers whose legacy still inspires a united nation.
By turning a marathon into a celebration of remembrance, the Indian Army not only honored its heroes but also strengthened the bonds between the armed forces and the people of India’s far‑flung frontier.
Source: ianslive
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