PSPB's 'Petro Run' flagged off by Hima Das and Pullela Gopichand

Hima Das, the Indian sprint runner from Assam along with badminton's Chief national coach Pullela Gopichand on Sunday went off to kick start the PSPB International Half Marathon 'Petro Run'. This was the fourth edition of the Petroleum Sports Promotion Board event. It made a jump start in the presence of PSPB chairman M M Kutty. President Sanjiv Singh and Indian Oil sportspersons Padmini Rout, M Poovamma, Swapna Burman, Ameya Malik, Jauna Murmur, Suresh Kumar, Laxman Rawat, S K Uthappa and Kajal Kumari were also present.

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Hima Das and Pullela Gopichand speak 

Hima Das, speaking about the ‘Fit India Movement’ initiated by the Prime Minister stated that she is ‘happy’ to be a part of the event as she made a kickstart to the marathon.

 'I am happy to be part of Fit India movement by flagging off the Petro Run Delhi. I request everyone to actively participate in this movement started by our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and make it a big success. As it will not only help us to stay healthy individually but also make our country fitter, healthier and free from diseases. So everyone please participate in the Fit India movement by at least spending one hour on your fitness and contribute for making better India.' sic Hima Das said in a statement.

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Pullela Gopichand who was also present at the event proclaimed excitement as he witnessed the level of participation in the marathon. 

Gopichand, speaking on the event stated 'It is an electrifying environment here. I am overwhelmed to witness this level of participation at the Petro Run. It is a privilege to be associated with PSPB and Indian Oil. Kudos to the organisers and best wishes to runners.'

The event has the prize money of Rs. 42 lakh, with 119 prizes under various categories for both men and women.

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Fit India Movement 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier launched the Fit India Movement. The PM in his statement had asserted that the movement is currently the need of the hour. Only through sports and physical activities can we achieve a healthy lifestyle free from ailments. The PM in his address at the launch of the Fit India Movement urged the people to make it a mass movement similar to that of Swacch Bharat Mission.

READ: Hima Das Congratulates PM Modi And Kiren Rijiju For Fit India Movement

(With PTI inputs)