Abujhmad Steps into a New Era of Trust and Development with Peace Marathon 2026
Raipur, January 29
Once counted among the country’s most inaccessible and Left Wing Extremism–affected regions, Abujhmad is now steadily moving along a new path of peace, trust, and development. For decades, the region remained under the shadow of Maoist violence and fear. In recent years, sustained efforts by the state government have focused on bringing Abujhmad into the mainstream. The Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon 2026 is emerging as a powerful symbol of this transformation.
The 21-kilometre half marathon, to be organised from Narayanpur to Basing, is not merely a sporting event but a public campaign carrying the message of peace, unity, and harmony. Through this initiative, a positive narrative is reaching areas that for long remained deprived of development and government outreach. The active participation of local communities, including the Abujhmadia tribe, has given the event strong social and cultural significance.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai will attend Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon on the morning of January 31. The programme will begin with a Zumba session, followed by Chief Minister flagging off the marathon at 6.30 am. Thereafter, he will visit the Ramakrishna Ashram and have breakfast with children at the ashram. His presence is expected to further strengthen the state government’s commitment to peace-building and the holistic development of Abujhmad.
The Abujhmad Peace Marathon 2026 has attracted wide participation at both national and international levels. More than 6,500 runners have registered for the event, including over 100 international participants, more than 500 runners from other states, around 6,000 participants from Chhattisgarh, and over 4,000 runners from Narayanpur district alone. In addition, 12 runners have registered in the quad run category.
Beyond promoting fitness and sports among youth, the marathon is also emerging as a catalyst for tourism, a platform to showcase local culture on a global stage, and a symbol of a new era of peace and development in a region once deeply affected by extremism.