Tata Steel Joda Run-a-thon: Over 4,600 Runners Champion Fitness and Sustainability
Joda : The second edition of the Tata Steel Joda Run-a-thon turned the Central Playground of Joda Municipality into a vibrant hub of energy and enthusiasm as more than 4,600 runners from across the country participated in the marquee event.
With the theme “Green Today, Greener Tomorrow”, the run highlighted both fitness and sustainability, drawing citizens of all ages into a spirited celebration.
The event was flagged off by Jagdish Kumar Sahu, Chairman of Joda Municipality, D.D. Hanumanta, IFS, DFO Keonjhar, Rakesh Kumar Panda, Tehsildar Barbil, Nirmal Biswal, Tehsildar Koira, Devendranath Pingua, SDPO Barbil, Prashant Kumar Samal, IIC Joda Police Station, along with Atul Kumar Bhatnagar, General Manager OMQ, Tata Steel, and Surbhi Bhatnagar.
In the 10K category, Prashant Choudhary from Uttar Pradesh and Basanti Kumari from Jharkhand emerged victorious in the men’s and women’s divisions, respectively.
The 7K run saw Dhiraj Kumar from Uttar Pradesh and Basanti Mandia from Odisha clinch top honours, while Uday Melgandi from Jharkhand and Mamta Kumari from Odisha won the boys’ and girls’ 5K categories. A special highlight was the participation of 84 Divyang athletes in the 2K run, showcasing inclusivity and determination. The total prize pool across categories amounted to Rs 5,67,000.
Commending the initiative, D.D. Hanumanta remarked that such events are vital in encouraging fitness among citizens, especially in today’s fast-paced lifestyle.
Jagdish Kumar Sahu emphasised that the Run-a-thon not only promotes physical well-being but also strengthens community bonds, turning the city into a festive ground.
Atul Bhatnagar, General Manager, OMQ, Tata Steel, expressed delight at the success of the event, reiterating the company’s commitment to sustainability. He announced that Tata Steel would plant a sapling for each participant, furthering its pledge to a greener tomorrow.
The company also showcased furniture made from recycled solid waste, including chairs, tables, benches, and fencing guards, underscoring its innovative approach to sustainability.
Adding to the excitement, the superbiker group “Ride With Pride” from Jamshedpur accompanied the runners with Harley-Davidson, BMW, and Ducati motorcycles, cheering them along the route.
The Tata Steel Joda Run-a-thon 2025 thus stood out not only as a sporting spectacle but also as a powerful message of health, unity, and environmental responsibility.
