Sikkim State AIDS Control Society Hosts Red Run 2023: Youth Unites for HIV/AIDS Awareness

Namchi, 15 September (IPR)- Sikkim State AIDS Control Society, under the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Sikkim, hosted the Red Run 2023 marathon at Helipad, Namchi. The event marked a significant milestone as it was the first festival held under the aegis of the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Approximately 500 enthusiastic participants, representing schools and universities united under the banner of the Red Ribbon Society to champion the cause of “YOUTH FOR HIV/AIDS.” The event was a collaborative effort, with various departments contributing to its success.
SDM Namchi Mr. Gopal K Chettri had graced the occasion as the chief guest. Also present were Joint Director, Sports Department Namchi Mrs. Tshering Ongmu Bhutia, CMO Namchi Mr. K.N. Adhikary, Project Director of Sikkim SACS Ms. Diki Wangmu Phempu among others.
The chief guest In his address highlighted the crucial need to raise HIV/AIDS awareness within the community, stressing that collective efforts can reduce its impact. He urged against stigmatizing the illness due to its controllable nature. He encouraged a positive approach among the youth and advocated for voluntary HIV/AIDS testing. He extended gratitude to NGOs and event organizers for their contributions. In a concise manner, he delivered a vital message of unity and responsibility in combating HIV/AIDS, encapsulating the spirit of the event.
The marathon saw participants competing in a 9-kilometer run for males and a 6-kilometer run for females. The winners received certificates and generous prize money.
In the male category, the top three winners were:
1st Place: Nimsang Limboo from Sanchaman Limboo Government Degree College, Gyalshing Sikkim
2nd Place: Mushtak Tamang, Sanchaman Limboo Government Degree College, Gyalshing Government College
3rd Place: Riwas Rai, Namchi Senior Secondary School
The female category winners:
1st Place: Riya Tamang, VCGL School, Ravangla
2nd Place: Arpana Lepcha, Timburbong Secondary School
3rd Place: Lalita Kami, VCGL School Ravangla
Apart from marathon, the event also featured various programmes including a Pipe band performed by Government Senior Secondary School Sadam, Zumba performed by the Red Ribbon Club from Melli Gumpa Senior Secondary School, and a Flash Mob presented by the BRSTP dance crew Namchi.
Furthermore, the Reels Making competition winners received well-deserved recognition during the program.
In a remarkable turn of events, the first and second-place winners in the marathon (male category) have been selected in the Goa National Level marathon competition scheduled in October 8th, 2023.