On Sunday, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) launched the first global edition of the Viksit Bharat Run 2025. This exciting event took place in over 100 countries. It was part of Seva Pakhwada, a period dedicated to service that runs from September 17 to October 2, with the theme “Run to Serve the Nation.”
The goal of the Viksit Bharat Run was to inspire communities to come together for nation-building. People participated in community runs of 3-5 kilometers at various iconic locations around the world, including cities like Bangkok, Beijing, and Tokyo. The event saw enthusiastic participation from the Indian diaspora, students, and local communities.
Vikram Doraiswami, India’s High Commissioner to the UK, shared the initiative’s vision. He emphasized the importance of service, saying, “It highlights the Indian community’s contributions here and abroad.” This sentiment resonated with many participants.
One runner from the UK expressed their excitement, stating that they were eager to join such an initiative and hoped for more people to participate in the future.
In addition to running, participants took the Viksit Bharat Pledge and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Pledge, showing their support for India’s development plans. They also joined an environmental initiative called “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam,” which promotes tree planting to tie in the spirit of service with sustainability.
The event linked participants to the MY Bharat portal, which offers various volunteering opportunities and programs for youth. Indian missions worldwide collaborated with community groups to maximize participation. Local leaders and dignitaries joined in, showcasing India’s remarkable progress and achievements.
Recent surveys show a growing awareness among the Indian diaspora about participating in global initiatives. A significant percentage of people reported feeling a stronger connection to Indian culture through events like the Viksit Bharat Run. This has become a social media trend, with many sharing their experiences online, further encouraging others to join what’s become a global movement for development and unity.
The Viksit Bharat Run not only fosters community spirit but also promotes a sense of belonging, making it a remarkable example of how physical activity can unite people across borders. For more insights on the role of global communities in nation-building, you can check this report.
The Viksit Bharat Run illustrates the power of collaboration and shared goals. Communities worldwide are not just running; they are running towards a brighter future together.

