Car Nicobar, March 22: The Sports Authority of India (SAI), STC Car Nicobar, successfully organized a Marathon Cross Country Event under the Fit India Tribal Sports Festival – Car Nicobar 2026 yesterday in association with Fire Service Department. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation with 104 participants in the Men’s & Boy’s category and 150 participants in the Women’s & Girl’s category. The Women’s & Girl’s race was flagged off by Shri Derick Jacob, 1st Headman of Kinyunka Village, followed by the Men’s & Boy’s race flagged off by Lt. Col. Shrihari Kugaji, Company Commander, 172 Infantry Battalion (TA) Madras. “A key highlight of the event was the ceremonial Water Salute presented by the Fire Department, adding dignity and grandeur to the occasion. The arrangement was carried out under the supervision of Shri Bimal Roy, ASI, Fire Service Department, Car Nicobar.
The marathon saw an overwhelming response from the public, with large crowds lining the roads across the island, cheering and motivating the participants. The prize distribution ceremony was held at Perka Community Hall, where Shri Solomon Samuel, DYSP (Police), Nicobar District graced the occasion as the chief guest. Lt. Col. Shrihari Kugaji, was the Special Guest in the event and Shri Paul David, 1st Headman of Perka Village was the Guest of Honour. Other dignitaries present were Dr. Sylvester Titus (Medical Officer, BJR Hospital) and Shri John Valliant, former footballer of the island. The event concluded successfully with winners being felicitated and all participants appreciated for their sporting spirit. The Tribal Council of Car Nicobar demonstrated strong commitment and interest towards the development of sports in the island, especially in fostering and encouraging tribal youth participation.