Kohima: As part of the nationwide celebration commemorating 90 years of broadcasting in India, organised the “Akashvani Marathon” on Friday to promote fitness, public participation and national unity in line with the vision of a healthy and active India.
The marathon began at the Old MLA Hostel Junction and concluded at the High School Junction in Kohima. A total of 180 students from six government schools participated in the event.
The participating schools included Government High School, PWD Colony; Government High School, Chandmari; ; T.M. Government High School; PM SHRI Government High School, New Market; and Government High School, Forest Colony.
Deputy Commissioner of Kohima B. Henok Buchem flagged off the marathon at the Old MLA Hostel Junction.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Buchem said the event symbolised a marathon of voices, music, news and stories that have reached millions through broadcasting over the decades. He said the occasion was not only a milestone in broadcasting history but also a celebration of unity fostered through shared narratives and songs.
He also conveyed his best wishes to Akashvani for many more decades of innovation and dedicated public service in delivering news and programmes that connect people across the country.
Director of Youth Resources and Sports, Government of Nagaland, Kethosituo Sekhose attended the closing ceremony as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Sekhose recalled the deep impact Akashvani has had on people’s lives and noted that radio continues to remain an important source of information, especially in rural areas. Congratulating Akashvani Kohima for its longstanding service, he also lauded all participants of the marathon, saying every participant was a winner.
He further emphasised the importance of fitness and encouraged citizens to contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 through healthy living and active participation in nation-building.
Later, Sekhose distributed cash prizes, medals and certificates to the winners in both boys’ and girls’ categories.
In the boys’ category, Ketouselie of T.M. Government High School secured first place with a timing of 11 minutes 7 seconds, followed by Muying Phom of Government High School, PWD Colony at 11 minutes 9 seconds, and Pherongwi of Dr Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School at 11 minutes 10 seconds.
In the girls’ category, Vibeizonuo Nienu of Dr Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School won first place with a timing of 14 minutes 18 seconds. Yanhola of Government High School, Chandmari secured second place with 14 minutes 56 seconds, while Avisi Kire of Dr Neilhouzhü Kire Government Higher Secondary School finished third with 15 minutes 28 seconds.
Five consolation cash prizes were also awarded in each category. Staff members of Akashvani Kohima also took part in the marathon.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Programme Executive Khriesaneisa Rutsa highlighted the significance of the 90-year milestone of Akashvani.
He said broadcasting in India began with the establishment of the in 1927, which later became the Indian State Broadcasting Service in 1930 before being renamed in 1936. In 2022, the organisation adopted the name Akashvani.
Rutsa also informed that Akashvani Kohima completed 63 years of service in January 2026.
Since June 2025, Akashvani Kohima has organised a series of activities to commemorate 90 years of broadcasting, including special programmes featuring former broadcasters and experts, essay competitions for schools, folk song competitions involving Naga tribal student bodies and Hindi film song competitions.
He added that through its popular programme “My Beloved Village”, Akashvani Kohima has reached audiences across all districts and many remote villages of Nagaland. At present, the station broadcasts more than 55 programmes through its two channels — Primary Channel and FM Tragopan.
Rutsa said the marathon was organised to create awareness about the rich legacy of Akashvani while promoting fitness and healthy living.
On behalf of the Head of Office and Head of Programme, Akashvani Kohima, he expressed gratitude to the Kohima district administration, traffic police, Chief Medical Officer’s office, partners, sponsors, participating schools, media personnel, volunteers and staff members for their support in making the event successful.
The event was organised in partnership with the under the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland, and Miachieo Market, Peraciezie.
State Bank of India, Regional Business Office, Dimapur Region, sponsored the event.