Chandigarh, March 8, 2026: SVKM’s Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) Chandigarh successfully organized the fourth edition of its annual Half Marathon 2026 at the campus, bringing together more than 1,000 runners from Chandigarh and the Tricity region. The event was held under the inspiring theme “Unstoppable Her,” celebrating the strength, ambition, and leadership of women across society.
The marathon, organized in collaboration with the Chandigarh Administration, featured three race categories — the 21.1 km Half Marathon, an 11 km run, and a 5 km run. Participants from different age groups and backgrounds joined the event, highlighting the growing enthusiasm for fitness and community engagement. The event also witnessed the participation of persons with disabilities (PWaD), reflecting the inclusive spirit of the initiative.
The marathon produced several remarkable performances. In the 21.1 km Half Marathon, Santosh Kumari secured first place in the female category with an impressive timing of 01:31:13, while Yash Raj emerged as the male winner, finishing the race in 01:07:35.
In the 10 km category, Pramod Yadav won the male division with a timing of 37:04, while Nisha Garg secured the top position in the female category with 48:58.
Meanwhile, in the 5 km run, Ayush topped the male category with a time of 14:52, while Arshdeep Kaur claimed first place among female participants, completing the race in 21:23. Winners across the categories were awarded prizes worth up to ₹1 lakh.
The event was graced by the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh UT, Gulab Chand Kataria, who attended as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he appreciated the initiative and highlighted the importance of empowering women through education and participation in all fields. He stated that events like these help create awareness about building a more inclusive society. Referring to International Women’s Day, he noted that while women currently make up around 20–30% of enrolment in higher education, collective efforts should aim to increase this to 40–50%, aligning with the vision of the Prime Minister to expand educational opportunities for women.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Pro-Vice Chancellor of NMIMS, emphasized that leadership is built through resilience, inclusivity, and purpose. She said the theme “Unstoppable Her” reflects the determination of women who continue to break barriers and drive meaningful change across institutions and society.
Prof. (Dr.) Jyotsna Singh, Campus Director of NMIMS Chandigarh, expressed her happiness over the successful completion of the fourth edition of the marathon. She noted that the event not only celebrated fitness and perseverance but also strengthened the sense of community and social responsibility. She added that the theme gained even greater significance as it coincided with International Women’s Day, honouring the resilience and achievements of women.
Dr. Singh also acknowledged the leadership of Shri Amrishbhai Patel, whose guidance continues to promote inclusive growth and women’s leadership across NMIMS institutions.
Over the years, the NMIMS Half Marathon has evolved into a major annual event that brings together students, professionals, families, and fitness enthusiasts for a shared social cause. The 2026 edition once again reinforced NMIMS Chandigarh’s commitment to women empowerment, inclusive leadership, and community engagement, highlighting that leadership is shaped not only in classrooms but also through initiatives that inspire social progress.