Jammu International Marathon: CM Omar Abdullah Flags Off Historic First Edition to Boost Tourism

JAMMU, March 29,2026 — Marking a historic milestone for sports and regional development, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah flagged off the first-ever Jammu International Marathon on Sunday, March 29, 2026.

In a powerful display of leadership and personal commitment to fitness, the Chief Minister did not merely officiate the start at the Maulana Azad Stadium but actively joined hundreds of participants in the run, signaling a new era for the Union Territory as a burgeoning hub for global sporting events.

The event saw a massive turnout, drawing a diverse crowd of professional athletes, local fitness enthusiasts, and international runners. Adding significant high-profile appeal to the marathon were fitness icons and Bollywood personalities Milind Soman and Gul Panag, whose participation helped galvanize public interest and underscored the government’s message of health and community bonding.

Organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, the marathon serves as a strategic pillar in a broader campaign to reposition Jammu as a premier destination for outdoor adventure and elite athletic competitions.

International participants, including seasoned marathoners from Kenya, lauded the initiative as a foundational success for the region. While some athletes noted that the local weather conditions provided a rigorous challenge, the overall consensus among the running community was one of deep appreciation for the seamless organization.

Complementing the event’s success, Sports Minister Satish Sharma reaffirmed the government’s dedication to upgrading sports infrastructure, promising that this marathon is only the first of many large-scale international events planned to empower the youth and elevate Jammu’s profile on the global stage.