More than 1,600 participants took part in the Viksit Bharat Run 2.0, held on Friday at Boulevard Park in Salmiya, Kuwait City. The event was organized by the Embassy of India in Kuwait as part of the SevaPakhwada 2026 campaign, marking a fortnight of community service culminating on October 2, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Indian Ambassador to Kuwait, HE Mrs. Paramita Tripathi, officially flagged off the run, which attracted members of the Indian diaspora as well as friends of India from diverse backgrounds and age groups. The initiative aimed to promote fitness, community engagement, and the broader vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, a government campaign focused on national development by India's centenary of independence.

The run was linked to the ongoing Fit India Movement, specifically the Fit India Freedom Run 7.0, taking place nationwide from October 2 to 31. Ambassador Tripathi encouraged attendees to incorporate daily physical activity into their routines, emphasizing the campaign’s message of at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.

The event carried the slogan, "Run for Fitness, Run for Unity, Run for Viksit Bharat," connecting physical health and community well-being to other government initiatives such as Swachh Bharat (Clean India) and Viksit Bharat (Developed India). In line with these objectives, participants engaged in waste collection and cleanliness drives after the run, adhering to the “Leave No Trace” principle and supporting the Swachhata Hi Seva 2026 mission focused on public cleanliness and environmental responsibility.

Ambassador Tripathi highlighted the significance of the event as part of SevaPakhwada and invoked Gandhi’s teachings on cleanliness and service. She urged runners and walkers alike to enjoy the outdoors while contributing to a clean and healthy environment. “If you can run, run. If you cannot run, walk. Get your steps in, enjoy the morning, and most importantly, have fun,” she said.

The Embassy expressed gratitude to all participants and supporters for their enthusiastic involvement in the Viksit Bharat Run 2026, which successfully reinforced themes of fitness, unity, and social responsibility within the community.