04 October,2026 10:45 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
The marathon commemorates the courage and sacrifice of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon. Pic/Defence PRO
The Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2026 (SIM-26) was held in Mumbai on Sunday, October 4, with nearly 10,000 citizens, fitness enthusiasts, serving personnel, veterans and youngsters taking part in various categories, an official statement said.
The event was organised by the Headquarters Maintenance Command of the Indian Air Force in Mumbai and was also conducted in seven other cities across the country, it said.
The marathon commemorates the courage and sacrifice of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, PVC, who displayed exceptional bravery while defending Srinagar during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
The event aims to keep his legacy alive while promoting the values of courage, discipline and service associated with the Indian Armed Forces.
The marathon was also aligned with the government's Fit India Movement, which promotes fitness and an active lifestyle among citizens, the statement said.
Despite humid weather conditions, around 10,000 people participated in the marathon in different categories.
One of the highlights of the event was the participation of senior citizens, including Air Veteran Group Captain Bhabani Shankar Dash (Retd).
The event brought together people from different age groups and backgrounds, including civilians, serving defence personnel, veterans and young participants.
Air Marshal Yalla Umesh, VSM, PhD, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Maintenance Command, flagged off the Mumbai marathon.
Sreevalli, President, AFFWA (Regional), Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, PVSM, AVSM, NM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, and other senior officers from the Indian Armed Forces were also present.
India's U-19 cricket captain Ayush Mhatre attended the event as the Guest of Honour and presented awards to the winners in various categories.
His presence added to the enthusiasm among participants and spectators at the marathon.
The successful conduct of SIM-26 in Mumbai highlighted the connection between the Indian Air Force and the city's residents.
The event also sought to use sport and fitness to highlight the values of courage, service and national pride while remembering the contribution of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon.
Organisers said the marathon would help ensure that Sekhon's inspiring legacy continues to motivate younger generations.
