Every step towards fitness can also be a step towards protecting the wild
Shimla, October 4
The historic Ridge in Shimla turned into a sea of energy and enthusiasm on Sunday as children and youngsters laced up for a mini marathon dedicated to wildlife conservation.

The event was organised by the Wildlife Wing of the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department on the third day of Wildlife Week 2026, combining the spirit of sport with a message to protect the state’s rich wildlife and biodiversity.
The marathon was flagged off from the Ridge by Shimla Urban MLA Harish Janartha, who urged participants and the public to recognise the importance of wildlife and take an active role in its conservation.

The race, which covered the Ridge,Summer Hill and again Ridge route, saw enthusiastic participation from children and young people. The event sought to underline that conservation is not limited to forests and protected areas but is a responsibility shared by communities.
In the women’s category, Anamika secured first place, followed by Vipasha and Suman. In the men’s category, Jatin finished first, while Dhruv and Ramkrishna secured second and third positions, respectively.
The winners were felicitated for their performances, while all participants were appreciated for their enthusiasm, discipline and sporting spirit.
The mini marathon was part of a series of awareness and public-participation programmes being organised during Wildlife Week 2026. Through these initiatives, the Wildlife Wing is seeking to bring children and young people closer to nature and strengthen public awareness about protecting Himachal Pradesh’s wildlife and biodiversity.

