SHIMLA: As part of its continuing crackdown and awareness drive against the growing “Chitta” menace in Himachal Pradesh, the Himachal Pradesh Police has now turned to public participation and youth engagement, announcing the “Anti-Chitta & Clean Environment Awareness Mini Marathon 2026” in Shimla on World Environment Day.
The event, scheduled to be held at The Ridge on June 5, is being projected as a major public outreach campaign combining the fight against drug abuse with environmental awareness and fitness promotion.
Over the past months, Himachal Pradesh Police has intensified its anti-drug campaign through a mix of strict enforcement, crackdowns on drug networks, awareness programmes, and community participation initiatives. The latest marathon campaign reflects the force’s strategy of taking the anti-Chitta message directly to the youth and the public.
Organised jointly by the Himachal Pradesh Police and the Department of Environment, Science, Technology and Climate Change, the programme aims to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse while encouraging citizens to adopt a clean, healthy and disciplined lifestyle.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, while appreciating the initiative, said the youth of Himachal Pradesh are the future strength of the state and must be inspired towards fitness, environmental responsibility and a drug-free life. He appealed to citizens to turn the campaign into a people’s movement.
Director General of Police Ashok Tewari said the battle against Chitta was not merely a law enforcement challenge but a collective social responsibility. He said the marathon would help connect police with youth and society while spreading awareness about drug abuse and environmental protection.
The event will feature a 10-kilometre mini marathon and a 3-kilometre dream run, with reporting scheduled at 6 am and flag-off at 6.30 am from The Ridge.
Police officials said the campaign aims to transform every participant into an ambassador against drugs and environmental degradation under the slogan: “Run for a Clean Environment, Chitta Free Life.”
Students, educational institutions, sports groups, volunteers, social organisations and members of the public have been invited to participate in large numbers.
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