Alwar Tiger Marathon Concludes Successfully: A Powerful Message of Fitness, Environment, and Tiger Conservation
Gopendra Nath Bhatt
Sariska, located in Rajasthan’s Alwar district, was once considered one of the country’s most prominent tiger habitats. A few years ago, however, Sariska became completely devoid of tigers. Through sustained efforts by the state government and, for the first time in India, the rehabilitation of tigers via aerial translocation, Sariska has once again been repopulated with tigers, and sightings have resumed. To promote awareness and conservation of tigers, various public awareness campaigns have been conducted from time to time. Along with government initiatives, organizations such as Amul have also played an active role, yielding encouraging results.
Against this backdrop, the Alwar Tiger International Half Marathon–2026 was successfully held on Sunday in the historic city of Alwar with great enthusiasm, energy, and public participation. The marathon was flagged off by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma. Organized in the scenic backdrop of the Sariska Tiger Reserve, the event not only elevated the spirit of sportsmanship but also conveyed strong messages related to Fit India, environmental protection, and tiger conservation.
In the cool morning breeze, the rhythmic footsteps of thousands of runners transformed Alwar into a vibrant festival city. Over 18,000 runners from India and abroad participated in this prestigious event. The marathon commenced along the city’s major routes and featured multiple categories, including the 21-kilometer International Half Marathon, 10-kilometer Timed Run, 5-kilometer Fun Run, and 2-kilometer Para Run. Participation from runners of different age groups and abilities made the event inclusive and inspiring.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma emphasized that sports and fitness are essential for building a healthy society and that sustainable development is impossible without environmental and wildlife conservation. He stated that the protection of Sariska and other tiger reserves in the state remains a top priority for the government and stressed the importance of public participation. The event’s brand ambassador, actor Randeep Hooda, also motivated participants and called for greater awareness toward tiger conservation.
The event was attended by Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Bhupender Yadav, Rajasthan Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, Minister of State for Forest and Environment Sanjay Sharma, along with actor and brand ambassador Randeep Hooda. Personnel from the Indian Army, BSF, SSB, Police, and other paramilitary forces also participated, lending the marathon a strong national spirit and grandeur.
The presence of senior leaders from the central and state governments, renowned actors, security forces, and international runners turned the Alwar Marathon 2026 into a confluence of sports, social awareness, and conservation advocacy. Local citizens and youth showed tremendous enthusiasm, cheering runners with applause and slogans along the routes. Traders and social organizations of the city also extended support, transforming the marathon into a community celebration. The event significantly boosted Alwar’s tourism image and provided a wider platform for promoting the conservation message of Sariska.
The Alwar Tiger Marathon–2026 proved that sporting events can serve as powerful instruments of social change. By combining fitness with environmental and tiger conservation awareness, the marathon has set a benchmark for future editions. Following the successful organization, the organizers pledged to make upcoming editions more extensive and impactful, aiming to strengthen Alwar’s position on the global map as a hub of sports, nature, and conservation.
Over the years, the Alwar Tiger Marathon has evolved from a local event into one with international recognition. The participation of foreign runners once again added a global dimension this year. According to the organizing committee, the objective of the marathon extends beyond competition—it seeks to encourage a healthy lifestyle and foster sensitivity toward protecting natural heritage. In line with this vision, comprehensive arrangements for cleanliness, drinking water, primary medical care, and security were ensured along the route.
At the conclusion of the marathon, winners were honored with medals and prizes across various categories. Participants in the para run showcased extraordinary determination and courage, serving as a source of inspiration. The organizers expressed gratitude to volunteers, the administration, police, and the health department for their cooperation in ensuring a smooth and safe event.
Public awareness regarding tiger conservation in Sariska is a positive sign. However, compared to Sariska, Ranthambore in Sawai Madhopur attracts a much larger number of tourists. The primary reason is higher tiger sighting in Ranthambore, aided by its smaller geographical area and higher tiger density. Another significant factor is the comparatively better infrastructure in Ranthambore.
In contrast, the road from Alwar to Sariska remains in poor condition, discouraging tourists from visiting. Many visitors who travel this route choose not to return. Knowledgeable travelers often prefer the Kotputli–Thanagazi route, which offers better access to Sariska. There is growing hope that Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav, Rajasthan Forest and Environment Minister Sanjay Sharma—both representing Alwar—and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who also holds the portfolios of Finance and Tourism, will take steps to make the Alwar–Sariska road tourist-friendly.
The question remains: with improved road connectivity and better facilities, can Sariska attract tourist footfall comparable to Ranthambore? The answer lies in infrastructure development combined with continued conservation efforts.
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