Over 63,000 hit the track in Dabwali, CM vows tougher fight against drugs

Over 63,000 youth and sports enthusiasts came together in Dabwali, Sirsa, on Sunday for a mega marathon against drug abuse. The event, flagged off by Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini from the local grain market, was organised to spread awareness about staying drug-free and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Assembly session to continue till Aug 27: CM

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• Slamming the Opposition for questioning law and order in Haryana, CM Saini said: “The Opposition has no strong issues to raise. During their rule, FIRs were not even filed in crimes against girls. Now, police act quickly and criminals are punished”

• He said the Haryana Assembly’s monsoon session will continue till August 27, with the government introducing new Bills and responding to Opposition queries

• On national politics, he said a recent Bill in Parliament reflected the Centre’s effort to increase transparency and public trust in democracy

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• Speaking on water disputes related to the Ghaggar and Kaluana Kharif channel, the CM said: “The government is working fast and hopes to resolve the matter with Punjab soon.”

CM Saini not only inaugurated the marathon but also ran a short stretch with participants, underlining his commitment to the cause.

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dream of building a developed India can only be fulfilled if the youth are aware and free from drug addiction. Drugs not only harm individuals but also slow down the progress of families, society, and the nation,” the Chief Minister told the gathering.

He said the state government was strengthening the fight against drugs by holding regular awareness programmes and opening de-addiction centres, including in Sirsa. “Meetings with senior officials have been held to ensure that Sirsa’s development is not delayed,” he added.

Responding to the local demand for making Dabwali a separate district, the CM said: “The process is already in motion and will be completed in due time.”

The marathon saw spirited competitions across categories. In the half marathon, Mohit Kumar clinched the men’s title in 1 hour 10 minutes 39 seconds, bagging Rs 50,000, while Jaswant and Ram Swaroop finished second and third, winning Rs 37,500 and Rs 25,000 respectively. In the women’s category, Tamshi Singh emerged winner, followed by Jaspreet and Rajvinder.

In the 10-km run, Mohan secured first place in 31 minutes 17 seconds, while Bittu and Sandeep finished behind him. Among women, Neeta Rani bagged the top prize, followed by Anita and Savita.

Altogether, CM Saini awarded Rs 6.29 lakh in cash prizes to the winners.