- 2nd Aizawl International Half Marathon Announced in New Delhi : A Celebration of Fitness, Culture & Connectivity
- This year’s marathon carries the unifying theme : “Connecting India – Developing Mizoram – Empowering Sports”
- Race categories will include Half Marathon (21.1 km), 0 km Competitive Run and 5 km Fun Run for juniors and seniors
- Event will be supported by the National Cadet Corps (NCC)
- Aizawl is accessible by direct train connectivity, a development that organizers believe will dramatically increase participation
- It aims to showcase Mizoram’s emergence as a sporting powerhouse, while also promoting fitness, tourism, and inclusive development.
New Delhi, Oct 16 The serene hills of Mizoram are preparing to welcome athletes from across the globe once again, as the 2nd Edition of the Aizawl International Half Marathon (AIHM) is officially set to take place on February 14, 2026 in #Aizawl, Mizoram’s picturesque and vibrant capital.
Press conference held at Mizoram House, New Delhi, the Government of Mizoram in collaboration with Innovations India, formally launched the upcoming edition of AIHM. Building on the remarkable success of its debut in 2025, AIHM is rapidly emerging as a marquee event in India’s international marathon circuit — blending sport, culture, tourism, and regional pride into one powerful experience.
The curtain-raiser was led by Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister for Sports & Tourism, Government of Mizoram and Captain Rahul Bali, the Curator of AIHM. Together, they presented AIHM not merely as a race, but as a symbolic convergence of health, heritage, sports and the Himalayan spirit of festivity.
They were joined by a panel of prominent dignitaries and advisors which included Anshul Gupta, AIHM Mentor and Advisor, Ministry of Railways, H. Lalhmingthanga, Director of Sports, Government of Mizoram, Anil Verma, Executive Director, RDSO, Ministry of Railways, Alexander V. Chongthu, Resident Commissioner, Government of Mizoram
This year’s marathon carries the unifying theme : “Connecting India – Developing Mizoram – Empowering Sports”
It aims to showcase Mizoram’s emergence as a sporting powerhouse, while also promoting fitness, tourism, and inclusive development. AIHM 2026 is expected to draw over 5,000 participants, including national and international runners, elite athletes, amateur fitness lovers, and citizens from diverse backgrounds.
Race categories will include Half Marathon (21.1 km), 0 km Competitive Run and 5 km Fun Run for juniors and seniors
Adding a powerful dimension of youth engagement and national pride, the event will be supported by the National Cadet Corps (NCC), with Lt. Gen. Virendra Vats, Director General of NCC, joining the initiative as one of the Patrons of AIHM 2026. The involvement of NCC highlights the event’s emphasis on youth empowerment, civic discipline, and community participation — aligning with its broader vision of national integration and leadership through sport.
For the first time, Aizawl is accessible by direct train connectivity, a development that organizers believe will dramatically increase participation. Easier access from Delhi, Assam, Bengal, Eastern and Northeast India is expected to turn AIHM into a truly pan-Indian event.
Registration & Engagement Drive
Registrations for AIHM 2026 open on November 1, 2025, via the official website: www.aihm2026.com. In the lead-up to the event, a series of promotional campaigns and cultural showcases will be rolled out nationwide.Beyond the races, AIHM 2026 will also celebrate Mizoram’s cultural identity through :
Traditional music & dance performances
Tourism pavilions and local artisan exhibits
Health & wellness experiences in the fresh, clean air of Aizawl
“AIHM is an expression of Mizoram’s identity, our commitment to sports and youth development, and our aspirations to welcome the world to our hills. We are excited to welcome participants from both India and across the globe with open arms and proud hearts. AIHM is Mizoram’s message to the world is that we are proud of our culture, committed to youth, and ready to host global sporting excellence.” Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of Sports & Tourism
“AIHM is not just about running. It’s about connecting people, building bridges, empowering youth and sports and showing what Mizoram can offer to India and the world. We are not just organizing an international run, we are scripting a story of fitness, friendship, festivities and forward-looking regional pride. Mizoram is ready to shine on the global stage, and we are proud to drive this momentum through inclusive sporting excellence.”— Captain Rahul Bali, Curator, AIHM
“Aizawl International Half Marathon is an inspiring model of how sport can drive development and unity. It represents the convergence of sport and development and it is heartening to see Mizoram take the lead in such meaningful engagement. The Ministry extends full support in making this event a national showcase. We’re proud to support this initiative.”Kunal, IAS, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports. Government of India
“As someone deeply involved in connecting Northeast India to the rest of the country through infrastructure and policy, I am thrilled to see this vibrant convergence of sport, infrastructure, and regional pride. AIHM is an incredible example of what infrastructure, policy, and vision can achieve together.”Anshul Gupta, Ex GM NFR & Advisor, Ministry of Railways
Organizers confirmed that AIHM 2026 will adhere to top-tier international standards with RFID-based timing technology, Trained route marshals and medical teams, Multiple hydration and refreshment points, Robust security coordination with state agencies.
Jointly organised by the Government of Mizoram and Innovations India, and conducted under the aegis of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), the Aizawl International Half Marathon is fast becoming one of India’s most exciting destination marathons.With its vibrant culture, pristine air, panoramic hill routes, and unmatched hospitality, Mizoram is ready to welcome the world once again — one stride at a time.
For registration, race categories, and event details, visit: www.aihm2026.com
