JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the Jammu Marathon–2026 Expo at Dussehra Ground, Gandhi Nagar.
The Chief Minister formally opened the exposition by cutting a ceremonial ribbon, followed by the launch of a signature campaign.
The expo marks the final phase of preparations for the much-anticipated maiden edition of the Jammu Marathon, scheduled to be held on March 29 in the City of Temples.
During his visit, the Chief Minister inspected various stalls set up by government departments, private sports firms and event partners. The exhibition showcases a wide range of sports gear, equipment and accessories aimed at promoting fitness and outdoor activities.
The expo also features dedicated bib collection centres and on-the-spot registration counters for marathon participants. The Chief Minister collected his participation kit from the bib collection desk.
On the occasion, Minister Javed Ahmad Rana, MLA Bahu Vikram Randhawa, MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Ashish Chandra Verma, Director Tourism Jammu Vikas Gupta, event organisers and other senior officers were present.
The Chief Minister interacted with stall owners, athletes and volunteers, appreciating their contribution to fostering a vibrant sporting culture in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that his government has been striving to integrate tourism promotion with a healthy lifestyle. “In this regard, it is a matter of great satisfaction that on Sunday we will host the inaugural Jammu Half Marathon, along with 10K and 5K events,” he said.
He further stated that Jammu and Kashmir Bank has come forward as the title sponsor and the event has received an encouraging response, including participation from outside J&K. “More than 800 participants are coming from outside J&K, while nearly 2,800 registrations have been received from within J&K. Considering this is the first edition, the response is highly encouraging, and we expect it to grow further,” he added.
The Chief Minister recalled that on December 15 last year, he had unveiled the official logo, medal and merchandise of the Jammu Marathon, besides launching the event’s official website and opening registrations.
In addition to the half marathon, 10K and 5K categories have been introduced to encourage participation across all age groups and fitness levels.
Inviting fitness enthusiasts to take part, the Chief Minister said the marathon aims to promote a healthy lifestyle while showcasing the natural beauty of Jammu and Kashmir to visiting participants.
Later, the Chief Minister flagged off a bike rally from the venue to promote the Jammu Marathon.
