The first-ever Golden Pagoda Marathon Tropical Namsai 2025 has made a grand entry into the world of sports, bringing athletes together and fitness lovers from India and globally. Organized by Edify Sports in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the marathon aimed to promote fitness, cultural exchange & adventure tourism.
Participants from Ethiopia, Uganda & Kenya, along with runners from different states of India, made the event truly global. With 952 participants competing in four categories—42 km Full Marathon, 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km Run and 5 km Fun Run—this marathon has put Namsai on the map as a possible hotspot for sports and fitness activities.
The event was officially flagged off by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, alongside Minister of Forest & Environment Wangki Lowang and other dignitaries, at the iconic Kongmukham (Golden Pagoda), Namsai. In his speech, Mein gave his most attention to how such events promote fitness, boost local businesses and position Arunachal Pradesh as a leading destination for adventure sports. He also said Namsai’s deep-rooted connection to football and highlighted the government’s responsibility to restore the sports culture in the region.
One of the highlights of this marathon was its responsibility to the environment. In collaboration with Nature’s Orbit Collective Foundation, the event was designed to be zero-waste and plastic-free. With help from The Green Squad Team, waste segregation, recycling and composting were prioritized, making the event a standard for sustainable sports initiatives.
Deputy Chief Minister Mein shared his understanding of the state’s long-term plans for sports development. He announced ongoing collaborations with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) to create structured opportunities for young athletes. In addition, two new football stadiums are being built in Namsai and a new partnership with John Abraham’s NorthEast United FC under the Northeastern Football Federation is in the works, making Namsai the starting point for this exciting venture.
The event’s Brand Ambassador, Padma Shri Anshu Jamsenpa, was specially recognized for her contributions to sports and for inspiring young athletes. Mein assured that the government remains dedicated to supporting emerging talents and strengthening grassroots-level sports infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh.
With the successful launch of the Golden Pagoda Marathon, Arunachal Pradesh is poised to become a prime destination for adventure sports. Future editions of the marathon will include more sporting disciplines and fitness-related activities, further strengthening the state’s presence in the sports and tourism industries.
The event saw the presence of Advisors Zingnu Namchoom & Dr. Mohesh Chai, MLAs Nyabi Dirchi, Topin Ete, Puinnyo Apum, Likha Soni, and Nikh Kamin, Secretary of Tourism Ranphoa Ngowa, AIFA Treasurer Kipa Ajay, and Deputy Commissioner of Namsai C.R. Khampa.
The marathon was made possible with support from Sports Spectrum, R G Solution, SBI Bank, and Anvil, with Himalayan Holidays as the Travel Partner, Hotel Kinnara as the Hospitality Partner, and Red FM 93.5 & Sudarshan News as Media Partners. Digital promotions were handled by Aeonlogiciel, ensuring maximum reach and engagement.
The Golden Pagoda Marathon Tropical Namsai 2025 has successfully set a strong foundation for a vibrant sporting culture in Arunachal Pradesh. This event has not only inspired future generations but also strengthened the state's position in the fields of sports, fitness, tourism, and sustainability. (PR)