Arunachal hosts BRUTE 4.0 Marathon to combat drug abuse, highlight tourism potential in state

The Basar Running Ultra-Trail Experience 2024 (BRUTE 4.0) was officially flagged off today by Arunachal Pradesh’s Sports and Rural Development Minister, alongside Basar MLA Jini, at the Gori Field in Basar. The marathon aims to combat drug abuse and highlight the tourism potential of Arunachal Pradesh.

Over 200 runners from across the state, along with 9 international participants, lined up for the race, which includes four categories ranging from 5 km to 60 km. Prior to the start, participants engaged in a yoga session to prepare for the physically demanding event.

Organized by the Galo Community NGO, Gumin Rvgo Kwlaju (GRK), the BRUTE marathon seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse while promoting the region’s rich cultural and natural assets to tourists and adventure enthusiasts. 

The BRUTE event, which started in November 2021, has grown into its fourth edition this year. It has garnered attention not only from runners but also from historians, cultural advocates, and eco-tourism promoters, all focused on showcasing Basar and the broader potential of Arunachal Pradesh.

In an exclusive statement to Indiatoday NE, Ojing Tasing, the Minister of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development, stressed the importance of youth health, urging daily physical activity as a foundation for a strong nation. He also highlighted the role of events like BRUTE in promoting tourism, noting that increased footfall will boost the local economy, especially in Leparada district.

State Sports Minister Kento Jini encouraged youth to make marathon participation a regular habit for fitness and wellness, emphasizing its potential to delay the aging process. He also expressed hopes of making the event a permanent fixture on the state’s sports calendar in the future, should its popularity continue to grow.

Local MLA Nyabi Jini Dirchi urged the youth to steer clear of drugs and tobacco products, advocating for a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

Nyali Basar, the organizing secretary of BRUTE 4.0, told Indiatoday NE that the event’s four categories—5 km, 10 km, 30 km, and 60 km—are officially registered with the International Trail Running Experience (ITR). He emphasized that the marathon is a key initiative by GRK to raise awareness about drug abuse while promoting environmental conservation.