Over 10,000 join ‘Shauryaveer – Run for India’ in Delhi to mark 79th Shaurya Diwas

New Delhi: More than 10,000 runners, including army officers, soldiers, athletes, fitness enthusiasts and civilians, participated in the ‘Shauryaveer – Run for India’ held in the national capital on Sunday to commemorate the 79th Shaurya Diwas.

The event, celebrating the courage and sacrifice of India’s Armed Forces, was flagged off by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi. He thanked the participants for their enthusiastic response and highlighted the unity between civilians and soldiers.

“This year’s Shauryaveer marathon included 21 km, 10 km, 5 km and 3 km races. What’s most heartening is that nearly two-thirds of the participants were civilians, showing massive public support for our Army,” General Dwivedi said. He added that due to overwhelming registration numbers, organisers had to limit participation by Army personnel.

The Army Chief also informed that the Shauryaveer Run was organised simultaneously at 21 locations across India, drawing more than 35,000 participants nationwide.

Senior officer Lt Gen JK Sharma shared his experience, calling it an honour to run for a cause that celebrates the spirit of India’s soldiers. “Running Shauryaveer has always been a privilege,” he said.

Shaurya Diwas, observed annually on October 27, marks the day in 1947 when Indian troops landed in Srinagar and successfully defended Jammu and Kashmir from invading forces, a historic moment showcasing India’s military bravery.

The event featured multiple race categories for various age groups — a 21 km competitive run for adults, a 10 km open run, a 5 km People’s Run, and a 3 km family run open to all above 10 years.

The Indian Army stated that the success of Shauryaveer – Run for India highlights the strong bond between the armed forces and citizens, symbolising unity, patriotism and collective respect for the nation’s heroes.

(with agency inputs)