Aizawl, Jan 21: The second edition of the Aizawl International Half Marathon (AIHM) the biggest international sports event ever organised in Mizoram was officially unveiled today at a press conference held at Mizoram House, Guwahati, offering key insights into what promises to be a landmark moment in the state’s sporting and tourism history. The marquee event is scheduled to take place on 14 February 2026 (Valentine’s Day) at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, Aizawl.
The press conference was attended by several distinguished dignitaries and stakeholders, including Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of Sports, Tourism & Youth Services, Government of Mizoram, Captain Rahul Bali, Bollywood Filmmaker and Curator of the Aizawl International Half Marathon, R. Lalrodingi, Director, Tourism Department, Government of Mizoram and Brigadier G. S. Arora, Group Commander, National Cadet Corps (NCC), Mizoram, along with representatives from leading institutions supporting the event.
Addressing the media, the Minister highlighted the historic importance of the marathon for Mizoram.
“The Aizawl International Half Marathon has grown into one of the biggest international sports event hosted by Mizoram. It reflects our commitment to sports excellence, tourism development and youth empowerment, while showcasing Mizoram’s potential on a global platform,” said Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of Sports, Tourism & Youth Services, Government of Mizoram.
The stature of the event is further underscored by its distinguished patrons, which include His Excellency the Governor of Mizoram, General (Dr.) V. K. Singh, Lalduhoma, Chief Minister of Mizoram, Lieutenant General Varinder Vats, Director General, National Cadet Corps, Anshul Gupta, Former General Manager, Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) and Anil Verma, Executive Director, Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO).
The Aizawl International Half Marathon 2026 is expected to witness participation from across India and multiple countries, with over 5,000 runners anticipated this year a significant rise from its inaugural edition. Accredited by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), the event is duly supported by the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Sports Authority of India (SAI), Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) and several other premier organisations and institutions of India.
Speaking about the vision and expanding scale of the event, Captain Rahul Bali, Curator of AIHM, said:
“AIHM has now become a movement rather than just a marathon. With international participation, strong institutional backing and visionary leadership, we are placing Mizoram firmly on the global marathon map while inspiring a culture of fitness and unity.”
With the theme “CONNECTING INDIA, DEVELOPING MIZORAM, EMPOWERING SPORTS”, the marathon aims to promote national integration, strengthen sports culture and act as a catalyst for tourism-led growth in the region. The choice of Valentine’s Day adds a special dimension to the event.
“This Valentine’s Day, Mizoram sends a unique message to the world celebrate love by running together for health, happiness and harmony,” Captain Bali added.
R. Lalrodingi, Director of Tourism, Government of Mizoram, highlighted the marathon’s role in promoting Mizoram as a premier sports tourism destination, especially with enhanced accessibility following the rail connectivity linking Mizoram to the rest of India, which is expected to significantly boost tourist inflow.
Brigadier G. S. Arora, Group Commander, NCC Mizoram, reaffirmed the NCC’s strong support for the event and emphasised the role of youth participation, discipline and community engagement in making AIHM a grand success.
Organisers also announced that the total prize money has been doubled from ₹10 lakhs in 2025 to ₹20 lakhs in 2026, making the event even more attractive to elite and amateur runners alike.
Registrations for the Aizawl International Half Marathon 2026 are now open, and interested participants can register online at www.aihm2026.com.
With its scale, vision and international appeal, the Aizawl International Half Marathon 2026 is set to be a defining milestone for Mizoram blending sporting excellence, tourism promotion and a powerful message of unity through sport.
