Associated News Bureau

LG Manoj Sinha Flags Off Reading Marathon at Dal Lake, Calls on Youth to Embrace Knowledge, Fitness and Environmental Responsibility

Srinagar, July 25: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday flagged off a Reading Marathon on the banks of Dal Lake in Srinagar, bringing together the themes of knowledge, physical fitness and environmental responsibility. The event was organised by the National Book Trust as part of Education Week to commemorate six years of the National Education Policy (NEP). Addressing thousands of students from colleges and universities across Jammu and Kashmir, the Lieutenant Governor said education should extend beyond classrooms and examination halls to become an integral part of everyday life. “Education should not remain confined to books and examination halls. It must reach playgrounds, social spaces and become a way of life. Today’s Reading Marathon is a powerful example of that vision,” he said. Held under the theme “Run for a Green Future,” the marathon promoted reading, healthy living and environmental awareness. The Lieutenant Governor described the slogan as a guiding philosophy, saying that knowledge and environmental conservation both require patience, discipline and sustained collective effort. “Reading enriches our thoughts, running strengthens our bodies, and caring for nature awakens our conscience. Together, they prepare society to face future challenges,” he said. Urging young participants to adopt meaningful life goals, the Lieutenant Governor called upon them to make reading a daily habit, practise environmental conservation in their everyday lives and transform the spirit of the marathon into a lifelong commitment to positive social change. He stressed that true education lies in applying knowledge in practical life rather than merely acquiring it through books. Referring to the upcoming Vijay Diwas, the Lieutenant Governor paid tribute to the young soldiers who fought in the Kargil War and encouraged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to embrace discipline, leadership and a “Nation First” approach. Recalling the sacrifices of war heroes including Captain Vikram Batra, Manoj Kumar Pandey and Captain Anuj Nayyar, he said their courage demonstrated how determined young people could create history through dedication and patriotism. The Lieutenant Governor expressed hope that the Reading Marathon would inspire the values of national service, perseverance, discipline and leadership among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. The flag-off ceremony was attended by Dr. Amit Wanchoo, Chief Convener of the Chinar Book Festival; Dr. Angelo George, CEO of Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd.; Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo; SSP Srinagar Dr. GV Sundeep Chakravarthy; senior government officials, representatives of the National Book Trust, heads of educational institutions, noted literary personalities, teachers and a large number of students. ANB