AIHM 2026 elevates Mizoram onto global sporting map
AIZAWL: The 2nd edition of the Aizawl International Half Marathon (AIHM) 2026 concluded on a high note Saturday, drawing nearly 3,000 runners, including 16 elite international athletes, and firmly establishing Mizoram as one of India’s fastest-rising distance running destinations. The AIHM 2026 was flagged off by General (Retd) Dr Vijay Kumar Singh, Governor of Mizoram.
Held at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium, the marathon witnessed participation from athletes representing Kenya, Ethiopia, Bahrain, the United Kingdom, France and several other countries, alongside elite and amateur runners from across India and the North Eastern Region. The strong international presence, coupled with an overwhelming domestic turnout, transformed Aizawl into a vibrant global sporting arena.
Organised jointly by the Government of Mizoram and Innovations India under the theme “Connecting India, Developing Mizoram, Empowering Sports,” the event marked a significant leap from its debut edition last year, which had attracted around 1,500 participants, largely from the Northeast. Within a year, participation surged by almost 100 per cent, a growth that organisers described as a testament to the marathon’s credibility and expanding appeal.
The event was held under the patronage of the Governor of Mizoram and Pu Lalduhoma, Chief Minister of Mizoram, with strong support from Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister for Sports & Tourism, Government of Mizoram. Senior dignitaries and
AIHM 2026 – At a Glance
• Nearly 3000 Runners, 16 Elite International Athletes: Participants from Kenya, Ethiopia, Bahrain, UK, and across India mark an almost 100% surge from the inaugural edition.
• One of India’s Fastest-Growing Half Marathons: From 1,500 runners in 2025 to nearly 3,000 in 2026, AIHM records remarkable year-on-year growth.
• Backed by Top State Leadership: Held under the patronage of the Governor and Chief Minister of Mizoram, with strong institutional support.
• Boost to Sports Tourism in Northeast India: Positions Aizawl and Mizoram as emerging destinations for international sporting events and endurance tourism.