Mizoram Announces Second Chapter of Aizawl International Half Marathon, Set for February 2026

New Delhi ,17th october 2025:  Sports and Tourism Minister of Mizoram Lalnghinglova Hmar, on Friday officially announced the second edition of the Aizawl International Half Marathon (AIHM) during a curtain raiser press conference held at Mizoram House, New Delhi. The much-anticipated marathon is scheduled to take place on February 14, 2026, in Aizawl.

The announcement marks a major push by the Mizoram government to position the state as a global sporting and tourism destination. The press conference was attended by top officials and dignitaries, including Captain Rahul Bali, Curator of AIHM and cultural entrepreneur, Anshul Gupta, Advisor to the Ministry of Railways and Mentor of AIHM, Anil Verma, Executive Director, RDSO, Ministry of Railways; and Alexander V. Chongthu, Resident Commissioner of Mizoram in Delhi.

Addressing the audience, Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar said the marathon represents more than just a sporting competition. “This marathon is an expression of Mizoram’s identity, our commitment to sports and youth development, and our aspiration to welcome the world to our hills,” he said.

Set against Mizoram’s picturesque landscape, the AIHM 2026 will be held under the theme “Connecting India Developing Mizoram Empowering Sports.” The marathon aims to promote fitness, inclusivity, and tourism while strengthening Mizoram’s cultural and sporting identity.

Building on the success of its inaugural edition in 2025, the second chapter of AIHM is expected to attract over 5,000 participants from India and abroad. The event will feature multiple race categories, including the 21.1 km Half Marathon, 10 km Competitive Run, and 5 km Fun Run. With the newly operational train service to Aizawl, organizers expect increased participation from across the country, particularly from the Northeast, Bengal, and Assam.

Captain Rahul Bali, Curator of AIHM, highlighted that the event’s vision extends beyond the track. “With AIHM, we are scripting a story of fitness, friendship, and forward-looking regional pride. Mizoram is ready to shine on the global stage,” he said.

Registration for AIHM 2026 will open on November 1, 2025, through the official website www.aihm2026.com. The event will be accompanied by cultural showcases, tourism promotions, and wellness activities, highlighting Mizoram’s natural beauty and active lifestyle.

Organizers confirmed that the marathon will adhere to international event standards, including RFID-based timing systems, route marshals, medical and hydration support, and comprehensive security measures.

Jointly organized by the Government of Mizoram and Innovations India, the event will be held under the aegis of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). It is also expected to draw corporate sponsorships and national media partnerships, cementing AIHM’s place among India’s emerging destination marathons.