Assam Rifles to hold half marathon in Shillong

The Assam Rifles has announced the sixth edition of its flagship Half Marathon, scheduled to take place in Shillong on November 22, 2026. Billed as the North-East’s grandest racing event, the 2026 marathon is expected to see record participation from across the country.

The official jersey and finisher medal were unveiled during a curtain-raiser at the Assam Rifles Liaison Office in Delhi Cantt. Over 4,000 runners aged 12 to 60-plus are expected to compete across three distance categories: 5km, 10km, and 21km.

Participants will traverse the scenic routes of Upper Shillong, competing for a total prize pool of Rs 25 lakh, making it one of the most lucrative running competitions in the region. Highlight the growing stature of the race, Col Apurva Bhatnagar, VSM, stated that the enhanced prize money reflects the force’s vision to establish the event as a premier sporting spectacle.

Launched in 2021, the marathon aims to promote physical fitness, unity, and camaraderie, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a healthier nation. Dignitaries from the Government and armed forces are expected to attend.