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IAF Honors War Hero Sekhon with Second Marathon Edition in Chandigarh
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News18•04-10-2026, 11:00
IAF Honors War Hero Sekhon with Second Marathon Edition in Chandigarh
- •The Indian Air Force (IAF) organized the second edition of the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2026 in Chandigarh, commemorating Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the sole IAF recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.
- •Over 3,500 runners participated in the marathon, which honored Sekhon's exceptional bravery during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, where he shot down Pakistani Sabres.
- •Air Vice Marshal Shekhar Yadav highlighted the marathon as a major event to inspire people through Sekhon's legacy and encourage fitness and public participation.
- •The marathon featured three categories: a 21-kilometer run for serious runners, a 10-kilometer run for beginners, and a 5-kilometer fun run for general support.
- •Air Marshal Yalla Umesh emphasized that the IAF produces many heroes like Sekhon, whose courage and selfless sacrifice continue to inspire both the force and the public.
Key Questions Answered
The marathon is organised to commemorate the valour and supreme sacrifice of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the only IAF recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, while encouraging fitness and public participation.
Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon was an Indian Air Force officer serving with No. 18 Squadron at Srinagar who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his exceptional bravery and valour during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
The marathon featured three distinct categories: a 21-kilometre run intended for serious runners, a 10-kilometre run for beginners, and a 5-kilometre fun run for participants wishing to show support for the Indian Air Force.
