Wahge flags off IFCSAP marathon
ITANAGAR, 11 Oct: Health and Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge on Sunday called upon the younger generation to remain deeply connected to their indigenous roots while embracing a healthy and active lifestyle, as he flagged off the 25.5-km 'Run for Identity' marathon organised by the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP).
Addressing the gathering, Wahge emphasised that preserving indigenous identity, ancestral traditions and cultural values is a collective responsibility, particularly at a time when rapid modernisation is reshaping society.
He said initiatives such as the 'Run for Identity' marathon could bridge the generational divide by bringing young people closer to their cultural heritage while promoting physical fitness, discipline and community participation.
"Our indigenous identity is our greatest strength, and our traditions are the foundation of our society. As we move forward with development and modernisation, we must ensure that our younger generations remain connected to their roots," Wahge said.
Appreciating the IFCSAP for combining sports with cultural awareness, the minister stressed that safeguarding Arunachal's diverse indigenous languages, customs and traditional practices requires sustained efforts from every section of society.
"A healthy society is not just one that is physically fit, but one that is culturally conscious and proud of its heritage. Events like this remind us that development and tradition must go hand in hand," he added.
The marathon witnessed enthusiastic participation of more than 200 runners representing Arunachal, Assam, Uttar Pradesh and Haryana, with athletes competing for top honours in the men's and women's categories.
Kamal Kumar from Uttar Pradesh emerged victorious in the men's category, completing the gruelling 25.5-km race in 87 minutes and 20 seconds, while Nedi Ngi from Arunachal's Anjaw district clinched the women's title with a timing of 98 minutes and 23 seconds.
Both champions walked away with cash prize of Rs 30,000 each.
The race, which began at the Nyokum Niya ground in Nirjuli and culminated at Nyokum Lapang in Itanagar, brought together participants across generations, including children as young as nine, reflecting growing enthusiasm for fitness and cultural awareness.
Indigenous Youth Festival-2026 organising chairman Pai Dawe said the marathon was envisioned as more than a sporting competition, with its larger objective being to inspire young people to take pride in their indigenous identity.
He said the initiative sought to demonstrate that cultural preservation need not remain confined to traditional ceremonies and festivals but could also be promoted through sports and other youth-oriented activities.
Organising secretary Hilot Mugli said the marathon provided a platform to unite communities around a shared commitment to safeguarding their ancestral heritage while encouraging healthier lifestyles.
The event also served as a curtain-raiser for the upcoming IFCSAP Indigenous Youth Festival, scheduled to be held in Seppa in East Kameng district from 12 to 14 November, where indigenous faith, traditional customs and cultural heritage will take centre stage.
