Uttarakhand: Niti Extreme Ultra run kicks off in Chamoli's border valley with participation from 28 states
Chamoli, May 31
The three-day Niti Extreme Ultra Run was ceremonially flagged off on Sunday in the picturesque and strategically significant Niti Valley of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand.
Organised by the Tourism Department in collaboration with the Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), the unique event has attracted 933 participants from 28 states across India. The initiative aims to promote tourism in border regions, showcase local culture on a national platform, and encourage fitness among youth.
The event was inaugurated by Cabinet Minister and District In-Charge Minister Bharat Singh Chaudhary, who flagged off the race. Speaking on the occasion, he said the state government is committed to the holistic development of border areas and the promotion of tourism. He added that under the leadership of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the event serves as a strong extension of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Fit India movement into remote frontier regions.
He emphasised that expanding tourism activities in border villages would create new employment opportunities for local residents and further strengthen the country's "second line of defence" villages.
District Tourism Officer Arvind Gaur said the Niti Extreme Ultra Run is being held from May 31 to June 2. On the opening day, a 75-km ultra run from Rimkhim-Niti-Malari saw participation from 117 runners, while the 42-km Malari-Niti-Malari ultra run attracted 118 participants.
He further informed that 5-km, 10-km, and 21-km half-marathon events will be conducted over the coming days. The event will conclude with a 30 km MTB (Mountain Bike) Challenge between Gamsali and Malari.
Ahead of the main event, a cultural evening was organised by the Tourism Department in Malari village on Saturday night. Renowned folk singer Kishan Mahipal captivated the audience with performances of his popular folk songs. Participants and local residents enthusiastically enjoyed the cultural festivities late into the night.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's heartening to see events like this promoting fitness and tourism in remote border areas. The 'second line of defence' concept is crucial—empowering border villages with economic opportunities is smart strategy. Hope similar events are planned in Arunachal and Ladakh too. 🇮🇳
Great concept, but I hope the logistics are well-managed given the challenging terrain. The 75km ultra run sounds intense! Also, I'd love to see more local participants from Uttarakhand villages involved—this could inspire young people from these regions to take up athletics. Good first step though.
Impressive turnout with 933 participants from 28 states! As someone who loves trail running, I'd be keen to explore this route next year. The combination of cultural performances with athletic events is a great way to showcase India's diversity. Keep it up!
Watching our border areas get developed through events like this is truly inspiring. The Fit India movement reaching these remote regions is exactly what we need. I just hope the government also focuses on better road connectivity and basic amenities for these villages—not just during events but year-round.
This is a fantastic example of government collaboration with defense forces to promote tourism in border areas. The ultra runs and MTB challenge sound thrilling! I only wish there were more women participants from across India—8-10% seems low. Let's see more inclusive participation next year!
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.