SVKM’s NMIMS Chandigarh Successfully Hosts Fourth Edition of Half Marathon 2026 Celebrating Women Leadership

Chandigarh, March 8, 2026: SVKM(Shri Vile Parle Kelavani Mandal) Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS) Chandigarh successfully hosted the fourth edition of its annual Half Marathon at its campus today, witnessing enthusiastic participation from over 1,000 runners across Chandigarh and the Tricity region.
Dedicated to women in leadership, this year’s marathon was anchored in the inspiring theme “Unstoppable Her”, celebrating resilience, ambition, courage, and the transformative power of female leadership.
Organised in collaboration with the Chandigarh Administration, the NMIMS Half Marathon 2026 featured three race categories — Half Marathon, 11 km Run, and 5 km Run — open to participants of all genders and age groups. The event also witnessed spirited participation from specially-abled (PWaD) runners, reinforcing the inclusive spirit of the initiative.
Winners across the race categories delivered impressive performances. In the 21.1 km Half Marathon, Santosh Kumari secured the top position in the female category with a timing of 01:31:13, while Yash Raj emerged as the winner in the male category, finishing in 01:07:35. In the 10 km race, Pramod Yadav claimed the first position in the male category with a timing of 37:04, while Nisha Garg led the female category, completing the run in 48:58. In the 5 km race, Ayush topped the male category with a time of 14:52, while Arshdeep Kaur secured first place in the female category, finishing in 21:23. Winners across categories were awarded prizes of up to ₹1 lakh.
In line with the event’s commitment to gender inclusion and representation, female journalists were offered complimentary entry, further extending participation opportunities within the media fraternity.
The event was graced by the Governor of Punjab and Administrator of UT, Gulab Chand Kataria, who attended as the Chief Guest said ““I am pleased to see such an event being organised in Chandigarh and I commend NMIMS for taking the initiative to spread awareness on issues that are vital for building a more inclusive society. It is also heartening to note that the institute has recognised participants in the specially abled category, 

reflecting a spirit of true inclusivity. International Women’s Day is an important occasion that strengthens confidence among women and encourages greater participation in all spheres of life. While female students currently constitute about 20–30% of enrolment in higher education, we must work collectively towards our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of increasing this to 40–50%. Expanding access and opportunities for women in higher education will be critical in shaping a more equitable and progressive India.”
While female students currently constitute about 20–30% of enrolment in higher education, we must work collectively towards our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of increasing this to 40–50%. Expanding access and opportunities for women in higher education will be critical in shaping a more equitable and progressive India.”
Dr. Meena Chintamaneni, Pro-Vice Chancellor, NMIMS (Deemed-to-be University), while addressing the gathering, said,  “At NMIMS, we believe true leadership is built on resilience, inclusivity, and purpose. The theme ‘Unstoppable Her’ celebrates women who are breaking barriers and driving change across institutions and society. Initiatives like these reaffirm our commitment to nurturing future-ready leaders who will shape a more inclusive and progressive future.”
Prof. (Dr.) Jyotsna Singh, Campus Director of NMIMS Chandigarh, expressed her delight at the successful completion of the 4th Edition of the NMIMS Chandigarh Half Marathon, stating that the event celebrated fitness, perseverance, and community spirit. She noted that this year’s theme, “Unstoppable Her,” made the marathon even more meaningful as it coincided with International Women’s Day, honoring the strength and resilience of women.

She also acknowledged the visionary leadership of Shri. Amrishbhai Patel, under whose guidance Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies continues to promote inclusive growth and women’s leadership. Congratulating the winners of the 5 KM, 10 KM, and 21 KM categories, Dr. Singh added that completing a marathon itself reflects determination, discipline, and inner strength.
Over the years, the NMIMS Half Marathon has evolved into a signature annual tradition, bringing together students, professionals, families, and fitness enthusiasts for a larger social cause. This year’s edition reaffirmed NMIMS Chandigarh’s unwavering commitment to female empowerment, inclusive leadership, equal opportunity, and community enrichment.
By blending fitness with purpose, NMIMS continues to reinforce its philosophy that leadership is built not only through academic excellence but through initiatives that inspire societal progress and collective responsibility.