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Over 800 Participants Celebrate Health & Fitness at Republic Run 2026, Bicholim


Bicholim, January 2026: Commemorating National Youth Day and promoting a healthy lifestyle, the Republic Run 2026 was organised by the Lions Club of Bicholim and Leo Club of Bicholim, supported by Vedanta Sesa Goa. The event drew over 800 participants, showcasing vibrant energy, teamwork, and a commitment to fitness across all age groups.

The annual Republic Run has become a key community fitness initiative, encouraging citizens to embrace active lifestyles. This year marked the third consecutive year of support from Vedanta Sesa Goa under its โ€œYouTheChange, YouThePowerโ€ initiative.

The event was graced by Shri Chandrakant Shetye, Honโ€™ble MLA for Bicholim Constituency, who praised the organisers and partners for providing a platform that promotes health, discipline, and community well-being.

Mr Dhirajkumar Jagdish, Deputy CEO, Vedanta Sesa Goa โ€“ Iron Ore Goa, said:
“The Republic Run has evolved into a meaningful community initiative that encourages people across age groups to adopt active and healthy lifestyles. The enthusiastic participation reflects a growing awareness around well-being and the importance of staying physically active.”

The Republic Run 2026 featured three categories:

  • 2 km โ€“ children aged 8โ€“13 years
  • 3.5 km โ€“ open category for participants above 13 years
  • 10 km โ€“ open category for participants above 13 years

Participants enjoyed a spirited day of competition, camaraderie, and community engagement. Mr Naveen Hirekar, a participant, shared:
“It was encouraging to see so many children taking part. Such initiatives motivate people of all ages to step outdoors and engage in physical activity.”

Winners across categories:

  • 2 km: Vaibhav N. Chodankar (Boys), Garvi Kalangutkar (Girls)
  • 3.5 km: Parashuram Ghadi (Men), Dhriti Madkaikar (Women)
  • 10 km: Udesh Majik (Men), Vaishnavi Wadar (Women)

The Republic Run 2026 successfully fostered fitness, discipline, and unity, reinforcing the importance of community-driven health initiatives.

Events in Goa

Chirag Datta Naik Leads Youth Trek to Chandreshwar Parvat to Promote Fitness & Nature Awareness


Margao | August 4, 2025: In a refreshing and impactful initiative, Chirag Datta Naik, Congress leader from Margao, organised a community trek to Chandreshwar Parvat aimed at encouraging youth to adopt a more active and health-conscious lifestyle. The event, held on Sunday, brought together 25 enthusiastic participants eager to escape screens and experience the lush Goan landscape during the monsoon.

The group assembled at the Chandreshwar Temple Arch at 7:00โ€ฏAM, beginning their trek through vibrant green trails surrounded by natureโ€™s tranquility. The event was designed not just as a physical activity, but also as a platform for youth engagement, personal growth, and environmental appreciation.

Participants were provided with custom trekking T-shirts and refreshments, adding an element of camaraderie and shared identity to the experience.

The trek was led by experienced trekker Rahul Prabhudesai and coordinated by Raunak Nargundker, ensuring that all logistics and safety protocols were handled seamlessly.

A Call for Healthier Lifestyles

Speaking at the event, Chirag Datta Naik emphasised the need to divert young people from sedentary digital habits towards more wholesome, real-world activities.

โ€œOur youth spend far too much time in front of screens. Activities like trekking not only help them discover the beauty of our state but also encourage teamwork, fitness, and a healthy lifestyle. We need to create more such opportunities where young people can step outdoors, connect with nature, and nurture their well-being,โ€ he said.

The trek concluded around 11:00 AM, with trekkers visibly recharged and inspired. Many expressed a desire to participate in similar community-based fitness initiatives in the future.

More to Come

Chirag Datta Naik shared that this is just the beginning. Plans are in motion to organise regular outdoor events โ€” from treks and nature walks to wellness workshops โ€” all aimed at enriching the lives of Goaโ€™s youth.

โ€œThis is more than a trek โ€” itโ€™s a movement toward mindfulness, movement, and making memories in the natural beauty of Goa,โ€ he added.