A run dedicated to the rights of underprivileged children was organised here yesterday on the occasion of Children’s Day.
Organised by NGO Prayas in Chanakyapuri, the “Run for less and underprivileged children” saw the participation of 5,000 children.
Among them were school children, the homeless, other less privileged and special-needs children in the age group between 10 and 18.
Primary school participants showed great excitement. Daksh Kalra from Amity International did not have to think twice about taking on a marathon effort for a good cause.
“I like to run and it is nice to be here as it’s a charity event,” the 11-year-old said.
Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said: “There is a need to start national awareness campaign for child rights and the government will fully co-operate and give full support to this initiative.”
The marathon started at 7.30am from the Central Secretariat Ground and proceeded to Hyatt Hotel.
Children’s Day is held every year on November 14 to mark the birthday of India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
Meanwhile, President Pranab Mukherjee, Vice President M Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, his predecessor Manmohan Singh and Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi paid to Nehru on his 127th birth anniversary.
Nehru was born to Motilal Nehru and Swaroop Rani on November 14, 1889, in Allahabad. He remained in office until his death on May 27, 1964.