Dehradun, May 23: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami flagged off the countdown run for the Niti Extreme Ultra Run 2026 at the Chief Minister’s camp office on Saturday. He also lit a torch and participated in a symbolic run. During the event, the Chief Minister unveiled the mascot for the upcoming run, named ‘Kyaloo – the Snow Leopard’, scheduled for May 31, 2026.
CM Dhami emphasized that the Niti Extreme Ultra Run is not just an event but a campaign to awaken new energy, opportunities, and confidence in remote areas. He noted the enthusiasm and energy of the youth participating in the event, reflecting their courage and determination to achieve greatness for the country. He expressed confidence that the footsteps of the youth echoing today will create history in the heights of the Niti Valley in the future.
The Chief Minister stated that this run is not only a test of physical endurance but also a means to strengthen willpower, patience, and self-confidence. He highlighted that running in challenging terrains like the Niti Valley requires immense courage, unwavering faith akin to the Himalayas, and the bravery to accept challenges. He referred to the participants as ambassadors of Uttarakhand’s courage, tourism, and potential.
He further remarked that Uttarakhand is not just a symbol of natural beauty and spiritual power but a rapidly advancing state in every sector. The Niti Extreme Ultra Run will symbolize the strength and capability of the new Uttarakhand. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision that border villages are not the last but the first villages of the country, which this event embodies. He expressed hope that this initiative will provide new momentum for tourism, employment, homestays, local products, and youth entrepreneurship in remote areas.
The Chief Minister mentioned that the event on May 31 will write a golden chapter in the history of sports and adventure tourism in Uttarakhand. He expressed happiness that over 900 participants from 27 states and two other countries have registered for this grand event, showcasing the growing interest among the youth.
He concluded by stating that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, initiatives like Fit India Movement, Khelo India, and National Games are making sports and fitness a people’s movement. The state government is continuously working to establish Uttarakhand as the leading adventure sports and sports tourism destination in the country. Encouraging the participants, CM Dhami urged them to run with confidence and energy, safely completing the run to create new history in the Niti Valley on May 31. He extended his best wishes and congratulations to all participants and organizers for the success of the event.