The citizens of Delhi and India came together yet again to uphold the ‘Spirit of ‘Giving’ and celebrate #AaRangDeDilli at the 19th edition of the world’s prestigious Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) on Sunday, 20th October 2024.
With assistance from the Philanthropy Partner United Way Delhi, INR 3.27 + crore was raised for various social causes by the participating NGOs, Fundraisers and Corporates reinforcing the motto #CAUSEITMATTERS. The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon continues to be one of the largest sporting platforms for philanthropy and to date has raised over INR 84.48 crore towards charity.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Anurag Thakur, a Member of Parliament, said, “First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Mr. Vivek Singh for organizing this remarkable event, something unimaginable just a few years ago. What you began two decades ago has now blossomed far beyond just Delhi and Mumbai—it has sparked a nationwide movement. This initiative not only uplifts the sports community but also supports state federations and the national government in advancing the Khelo India and Fit India missions to the grassroots level.
“I would also like to urge my fellow countrymen to dedicate at least 30 minutes each day to physical exercise. Whether it’s playing a sport, practicing yoga, or simply running, find a way to stay active. Once you make exercise a daily habit, you will notice profound changes in your health and overall well-being, and you will become even more effective in everything you do.”
“Today, I would also like to express my gratitude to Vedanta, United Way of Delhi, and all the sponsors who contribute to this fitness revolution. While athletics and marathons may not always be the most entertaining sports to watch on television, sponsorships are what truly fuel these events. Your support is invaluable, and together, we are fostering a healthier and more active India.”
Speaking about this year’s edition, Dr. Sujeet Ranjan, CEO, United Way of Delhi, said “As we reflect on the incredible success of the 2024 Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, we are filled with immense gratitude. On the 20th of October, the streets of Delhi came alive with the energy of thousands of runners, both from India and across the globe, united in their determination to push boundaries and make a positive impact. This iconic event was more than just a race – it was a movement, with every step taken contributing to the betterment of communities in need.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the participants, donors, volunteers, and partners who made this event a resounding success. Your unwavering support has been crucial in driving our shared mission of creating lasting change, and together, we have proven once again the power of collective action”.
Cause Neutrality, Transparency, accountability, and Sustainability are the principles of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon philanthropy pillar. With the sustained efforts from United Way Delhi, this pillar has paved the way to a more organized method of giving through not-for-profits, across the Indian landscape.
The event’s title sponsor – Indian conglomerate Vedanta boosted the event’s philanthropic drive through its #RunForZeroHunger. The aim of running for meals for children to combat malnourishment in the country struck a strong chord with the runners. Under this initiative, for every kilometer run at the marathon, Vedanta committed to facilitating nutritious meals for children through their flagship social impact initiative – Nand Ghar.
Priya Agarwal Hebbar, Non-Executive Director, Vedanta and Chairperson, Hindustan Zinc Ltd.,Vedanta, said, “This year, Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon has been a true celebration of unity and purpose. Watching over 36,000 people come together to run for a cause bigger than themselves fills my heart with gratitude and pride. We have once again surpassed our goal and raised 10 million meals to nourish children or feed animals, proving that every step can create a meaningful impact.
To everyone who ran, cheered, or contributed—thank you for being part of this extraordinary movement. I am confident that we have created history.”
As a cause-neutral platform, the event had NGOs, which support multiple causes – ranging from early childcare and development, education and youth success, health and well-being, financial stability, environment and sustainability, disaster response and preparedness and diversity and inclusion. While fundraising is one aspect, the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon also provided the partnering NGOs with a platform to initiate dialogue on issues of shared importance.
With sustainability as the keystone, more corporate houses are now investing in social good through these charities year after year. This year, 12 Corporations with 640 Employees participated in the event.
Before this year’s edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon, corporates had only contributed towards fielding teams. However, in this edition companies in Delhi encouraged fundraising among their teams, making it more inclusive for all rather than only for those who are running. There were several fundraising companies and their employees’ raised funds through the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon.
Another key spectacle during the event was the youth signing up as cause champions, raising awareness and funds for causes close to their hearts and supporting the less privileged.
Naarayan TV, CMO, IDFC FIRST Bank, Said, “Anything that unifies people is worth celebrating. Marathons, in that sense, represent a great unifying force as they bring together the young and the old, the professional and the amateur, all crossing the finish line to celebrate diversity and inclusion. At IDFC FIRST Bank, one of our core pillars is Social Good. As the exclusive Associate Sponsor of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon 2024, we couldn’t be prouder of how the event unites innumerable charitable causes and an ever-growing community of people working together for the greater good”.
To ensure transparency and accountability each year, the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon unveils a Philanthropy Docket that captures details on all the funds raised for that year. This year the docket was unveiled in the presence of eminent partners and dignitaries
Vivek Singh, Jt. MD of race promoters Procam International, said: “The people of Delhi never cease to amaze us with their unwavering spirit and determination to make our society better each year. We are humbled to note that the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is an iconic sporting event with a social conscience. A symbol of hope, unity, and positive change. Kudos to all our stakeholders who have strived to make this event a resounding success.”
Together, let’s continue to run towards a brighter future and create a lasting impact. Every step you take truly matters.
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