ITANAGAR, OCT 10:

Hundreds of running enthusiasts and cultural supporters are expected to come together in Nirjuli on Sunday for the ‘Run for Identity’ marathon, an initiative aimed at celebrating Arunachal Pradesh’s indigenous heritage, cultural identity and community spirit.

Organised by the Indigenous Faith and Cultural Society of Arunachal Pradesh (IFCSAP), the marathon will serve as a prelude to the IFCSAP Youth Festival, Seppa 2026, bringing the message of cultural preservation beyond traditional celebrations and onto the running track.

Health and Family Welfare and Water Resources minister Biyuram Wahge will flag off the marathon at Nikum Niya Ground in Nirjuli at 5.30 am on October 11.

With just a day remaining before the event, preparations gathered momentum on Saturday as volunteers rolled up their sleeves to ensure the venue was ready to welcome participants.

A team of 30 volunteers assembled at Nikum Niya Ground, where Festival Chairman Pai Dawe and Secretary Hilot Mugli briefed them on their responsibilities and the arrangements required for the smooth conduct of the marathon.

The volunteers also undertook a cleanliness drive, cutting overgrown grass, collecting plastic waste and clearing unwanted materials from the ground.

An offline registration counter was opened at the venue to accommodate participants seeking on-the-spot registration ahead of Sunday’s event.

Organisers said the preparatory activities, including venue cleaning and logistical arrangements, were carried out according to schedule.

Beyond promoting physical fitness and healthy living, the marathon seeks to highlight the importance of safeguarding indigenous traditions and strengthening cultural consciousness, particularly among the younger generation.

The event is expected to set the tone for the upcoming IFCSAP Youth Festival in Seppa, with the message that preserving one’s cultural identity is as much a collective responsibility as it is a matter of pride.