The 2nd edition of the Aizawl International Half Marathon (AIHM) 2026 successfully concluded, attracting nearly 3,000 participants, including 16 elite international athletes, thus underscoring Mizoram’s emergence as a premier distance running destination in India. The event, flagged off by the Governor of Mizoram, General (Dr) Vijay Kumar Singh, took place at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium and featured athletes from countries such as Kenya, Ethiopia, Bahrain, the UK, and France, alongside numerous Indian runners, transforming Aizawl into a global sports hub.
Organized by the Government of Mizoram and Innovations India, the marathon reported a 100% increase in participation from its inaugural edition, which drew approximately 1,500 participants. This significant growth was celebrated as a testament to the AIHM’s credibility and growing popularity.
The event was supported by prominent local leaders and was framed within the theme of sports development in Mizoram. The Governor expressed his vision for the marathon to become a global iconic event, while the Minister for Sports & Tourism highlighted Mizoram’s readiness for hosting international events, noting the marathon’s expanding significance in the state’s tourism and sports landscape.
Captain Rahul Bali, the event curator, proclaimed the second edition a defining milestone, showcasing Mizoram’s rising reputation in the international running scene. In the competitive categories, Kenya’s Kemboi Kevin Kiprono won the 21KM Open Male race, while India’s Renu Singh topped the female category, with competitive times indicating the event’s international standards.
The scenic route through Aizawl not only provided a challenging course for participants but also engaged the local community, enhancing the event’s atmosphere. The successful AIHM 2026 illustrates Mizoram’s advancing sports infrastructure and management, signaling its capacity to attract larger sporting events and promoting sports tourism in the region. Overall, this edition of the marathon has solidified Mizoram’s place on India’s sporting map and represents a significant step towards greater connectivity and progress in Northeast India.
