NAYAGARH: (Report- Ramakrushna Rath): To honor the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, the Nayagarh Seva Utsav Samiti organised a grand Mini-Marathon and Youth Festival on National Youth Day. The event aimed to inspire the younger generation and promote environmental awareness. 
Nayagarh Mini-Marathon: Youth Celebrate National Youth Day with Fitness and Green Message

 

A Run for a Greener Future

The celebration began early in the morning with a vibrant four-kilometer mini-marathon. More than a thousand students from various educational institutions and members of leading youth organisations participated in the run. The marathon started from Durgaprasad and concluded near the Jagannath Temple in Nayagarh.
The theme of the marathon was "Building a Green Earth before the Green Earth Vanishes." This message focused on the urgent need for environmental conservation. Sanjeeb Panda, the Additional Director General of Police (ADG), attended as the Chief Guest. He flagged off the race and encouraged the participants with his presence.  
Nayagarh Mini-Marathon: Youth Celebrate National Youth Day with Fitness and Green Message


Honoring the Legacy of Swami Vivekananda

Following the marathon, a special meeting took place at the Kabi Jadumani Mandap. The event was presided over by Shibaram Mohapatra, Chairman of the Seva Samiti. Several distinguished guests attended the program, including:
 * Anjali Machhakhand, Secretary of the District Legal Services Authority
 * Santosh Pradhan, Social Activist
 * Chandan Kumar Sahoo, Youth Entrepreneur
 * Chittaranjan Pradhan, Sarpanch of Sunakhala
 * Amaresh Prasad Tripathi, State Head of Ajanta Shoes
During the session, speakers highlighted the teachings of Swami Vivekananda. They urged the youth to follow his ideals and dedicate themselves to the service of the nation. The guests also emphasized the importance of physical exercise, stating that a healthy youth population leads to a healthy society. They noted that the energy of the youth is the driving force behind the country's development. 
Nayagarh Mini-Marathon: Youth Celebrate National Youth Day with Fitness and Green Message


Cultural Celebrations and Recognition

The event concluded with an awards ceremony where participants received prizes and certificates for the marathon. This was followed by a lively cultural program organised in collaboration with the Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture. The performances showcased local talent and kept the young audience enthralled.
The successful execution of the day’s activities was supported by volunteers from the Debaduta Seva Parishad, Ajanta Shoes, and the District Legal Services Authority.