Bathinda: Sept 14: Over 20,000 youngsters, athletes, and citizens gathered in Bathinda for ‘Youth Run Punjab-2026’, marking the largest youth marathon in the state’s history aimed at countering substance abuse through sports. Reacting to the massive turnout, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal affirmed on social media that the restored hope and enthusiasm among Punjab’s youth demonstrates strong community leadership alongside state initiatives to eradicate the drug menace.
Speaking at the event, Officer on Special Duty Rajbir Singh Ghuman stated that the event represents the third installment in a serial marathon campaign initiated under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. He maintained that the overwhelming organic participation provides a direct counter-narrative to negative portrayals of the state, showcasing a rising and active Punjab focused on fitness. Organizers confirmed that cash prizes up to 11,000 rupees were distributed alongside participation medals, with future events scheduled for Patiala and Ludhiana to sustain the campaign momentum across the state.
