DEOMALI, Oct 9: The 72nd Wildlife Week 2026 celebration concluded in Deomali with a mini marathon organised by the Deomali Forest Division in collaboration with the NSS Unit of Wangcha Rajkumar Government College (WRGC), Deomali.
Held under the theme “Connecting Habitats, Thriving Wildlife”, the event witnessed enthusiastic participation of 164 runners, including 43 students from WRGC, Forest Department personnel and members of the public.
The mini-marathon brought together students, youth, women, government officials and local residents to promote physical fitness while spreading awareness about wildlife conservation and biodiversity. Deomali Block Zilla Parishad Member Yalik Lowang graced the occasion as chief guest. Town Magistrate Toko Kacha and WRGC assistant professor and NSS programme officer Ngamwang Lowang were also present.
Addressing the participants, Lowang appreciated their enthusiasm and commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. She also stressed the need to foster greater love and respect for wildlife and biodiversity, underlining their importance for the well-being of both nature and human society.
The Deomali Forest Division appreciated the enthusiastic public participation and called for collective efforts to make Deomali a model of biodiversity conservation and harmonious coexistence between people and wildlife.
In the general boys' category, Wanglem Kungkho secured first place, followed by Rohit Chetry and Rotoan Pumoh. In the general girls' category, Nawdam Manham emerged first, while Lihphe Gangsa and Mancha Boi secured second and third positions, respectively.
In the women's general category, Rumi Dutta won first place, followed by Minham Lowang and Nasen Basia. Among WRGC-NSS boys, Dangpho Pansa secured first place, followed by Noknyai Pansa and Phonyai Pansa. In the girls' category, Pilai Wangsa finished first, while Akhaw Gangsa and Nelai Wangsa secured second and third positions, respectively.
In the departmental staff male category, Tehon Ngongwa secured first place, followed by Jitlang Aboh and Toko Kacha. In the female category, Rongte Moithak won first place, followed by Chakam Lowang and Linda Moika.
Three young school participants who successfully completed the mini-marathon—Hangjon Shin (12), Moandeak Ketok (13) and Wangcha Rajkumar (13)—were also presented with commendation prizes.
The mini-marathon marked the culmination of the weeklong Wildlife Week celebration organised by Deomali Forest Division, featuring various awareness and conservation-oriented activities to encourage public participation in wildlife protection. (DIPRO)