27000 Runners United Under Fit India Movement, A Tribute To Indian Armed Forces By Marathon
FinTech BizNews Service
Mumbai, April 4, 2026: Punjab National Bank (PNB), the nation’s leading public sector bank, witnessed an overwhelming nationwide response to PNB Soldierathon 2026, drawing participation from diverse running communities, Army groups, and fitness enthusiasts. Emerging as one of India’s largest running events, the marathon reflects the country’s growing culture of fitness and national unity. Organised in association with the Indian Armed Forces under the theme “Run with Soldiers – Run for Soldiers,” the event brought together over 27,000 participants including soldiers, athletes, fitness enthusiasts, PNB employees, and citizens from all walks of life along with the active involvement of 1500+ volunteers, uniting India’s pride and passion on a single platform.
The marathon was ceremonially flagged off at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, by Chief Guests Hon’ble Governor of Mizoram General Vijay Kumar Singh PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC; Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, PVSM, AVSM, NM, Chief of the Naval Staff; Sh. M. Nagaraju, IAS, Secretary, DFS; Sh. Ashok Chandra (PNB MD & CEO), and senior management of PNB.
Commending PNB on its initiative, Governor of Mizoram General Vijay Kumar Singh PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC said, “This event, organised by PNB in association with Soldierathon and Fitistan, has been a tremendous success, with a remarkable turnout of over 27,000 participants. PNB truly deserves credit for executing such a large-scale initiative. It is encouraging to see a leading bank actively promote sports and fitness, sending a strong and positive message about health, discipline, and community engagement to the wider public.”
Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, PVSM, AVSM, NM, Chief of the Naval Staff added, “Events like these not only promote fitness and discipline but also serve as a powerful tribute to the unwavering courage and sacrifice of our Armed Forces. It is heartening to see citizens come together in such large numbers, embodying the spirit of unity, resilience, and national pride.”
Shri M. Nagaraju, IAS, Secretary, DFS highlighted, “Initiatives such PNB Soldierathon 2026 significantly contribute to building national consciousness, encouraging a culture of fitness, and deepening the civil-military connect.”
Shri Ashok Chandra, MD & CEO, PNB, said: “Founded by freedom fighter Lala Lajpat Rai, PNB remains dedicated to service and nation-building. The PNB Soldierathon reflects this commitment, bringing our community together to pay tribute to the courage and selflessness of our Armed Forces.”
Under the open category, Satyam secured first place in the men’s 21.1K race, while Neeta Rani won the women’s category. In the 10K run, Gaurav won the men’s category, and Sanjana Singh led the women’s category.
Following the success of the first edition of the half marathon in 2025, which focused on cyber security, this year’s edition—organised to mark the Bank’s 132nd Foundation Day—was dedicated to the Armed Forces and commemorated the success of Operation Sindoor, symbolising the indomitable courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication of our brave soldiers.
Aligned with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s nationwide Fit India Movement, PNB Soldierathon 2026 further reinforced the Bank’s commitment to promoting fitness, national pride, and collective well-being. To further expand the reach of its flagship half marathon to a true pan-India scale, PNB successfully organized a Virtual Marathon engaging employees across various verticals and branches, reinforcing the spirit of “One Team, One Marathon.
