Marathoner to run for martyrs' families

Ultra-marathon runner Samir Singh will take part in a 15,000-km run to generate funds for the families of martyrs of the Central Armed Police Forces, as part of a government initiative.
Singh says he has been invited to run under the Government of India's initiative 'bharatkeveer', a website which allows people to donate directly to an individual brave-heart's account.
He will take part in the 15,000-km run, starting in the first week of next month. "I am happy to accept the invitation," the city-based runner told PTI.
As part of the initiative, Singh hopes to generate funds for the families of martyrs through online donations on the 'bharatkeveer' portal. He says he will also seek financial support from sponsors.

Singh would commence his run from the Wagah border in Amritsar and run across various places in Punjab. The run would culminate at the Wagah border.
Some soldiers from paramilitary forces would also accompany him on the way during his endeavour.

Earlier in April this year, Singh had taken up the challenge of running 10,000 kms, 100 kms daily for 100 successive days. However, he fell short of 36 kms because of physical injuries and lack of proper equipment.
"This time I am excited as my run would generate funds for the families of India's brave-hearts," the 45-year-old runner said.

Singh, whose native place is in Madhya Pradesh, came to Mumbai 16 years ago and joined a survey company, besides trying his luck in acting in films and serials.
"While conducting a survey on Mumbai Marathon, I learnt that one can earn money by running too. It gave wings to my dream of running," said Singh, who has been regularly running in the sMumbai Marathon and other long-distance races organised across the country.