Surat to Host 2nd ‘Run for Girl Child’ Marathon: 10,000 Runners to Support Women’s Empowerment on January 4
Join 10,000 runners at the VNSGU Campus, Surat, for the 'Run for Girl Child' 2026. Organised by Dr Hedgewar Seva Smriti Trust, the event raises funds for 500+ development centres.
Surat (Gujarat) [India], December 29: The city of Surat is gearing up for a powerful cause as the Dr Hedgewar Seva Smriti Trust announces the second edition of the ‘Run for Girl Child’ charity marathon. Scheduled for January 4, 2026, at the VNSGU Campus, the event aims to mobilise the community for the holistic development of girls from underprivileged and distressed sections of society.
Event Overview and Prizes During a press conference, co-convenor Amitbhai Gajjar revealed that 8,000 to 10,000 participants are expected to take part. To cater to all fitness levels, the marathon offers four categories:
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21 km (Half-Marathon)
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10 km
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5 km
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2 km (Fun Run)
A total cash prize pool of ₹2,20,000 has been announced for the winners. The event is supported by AM/NS as the main sponsor, with additional backing from Ramkrishna Diamond, PPL, and Rajkot Nagrik Sahakari Bank.
Distinguished Guests, The marathon will feature ICC Chairman Jay Shah as the Chief Guest. He will be joined by prominent city industrialists and committee leaders, including Ghanshyam Shankar (Chairman, Peoples Bank), Shyamji Rathi, Rajeshji Surana, and Rakeshji Kansal.
A Movement for Holistic Growth. The 'Run for Girl Child' is more than just a race; it is a vital fundraising engine for the Trust’s expansive social projects. Shyamji Rathi, committee co-convenor, highlighted the Trust's rapid growth:
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Kishori Vikas Kendras: Grew from 7 to 159 centres in one year, with a target of 500 centres following this run.
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Gyan Mandir Project: Expanded from 60 to 105 centres, to reach 300 centres.
These centres focus on five dimensions of growth: physical, mental, spiritual, intellectual, and social. All proceeds from the marathon will be directly utilized for girls’ education and welfare activities.
About Dr Hedgewar Seva Smriti Trust Established in 1988, the Trust is a cornerstone of social service in Gujarat, operating in education, health, and self-reliance. Under the leadership of President Shri Ranchhodbhai Dholiya and Minister Nitin Patel, the organization continues to bridge the gap for those in distressed slum areas.
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