The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Rohtak recently held its much-anticipated annual ‘Run for Unity’ Mini Marathon on November 2, 2025, a special event dedicated to commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of India’s revered ‘Iron Man,’ Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. This vibrant 5-kilometer marathon saw an overwhelming turnout, with over 500 students, faculty members, and staff enthusiastically participating, all united in a shared spirit of national pride and leadership.
The event kicked off at 7:30 a.m. with an inspiring inauguration by Director Prof. Dheeraj Sharma. He passionately spoke about Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s immense contributions, recognizing him as the ‘Iron Man of India’ whose unwavering dedication significantly shaped the nation’s unity and integrity. Prof. Sharma encouraged students to embrace Patel’s spirit of responsibility and purpose in both their academic pursuits and future careers.
After the motivating address, the ‘Run for Unity’ Mini Marathon 2025 officially began with a burst of energy. Throughout the event, student volunteers played a crucial role, providing active assistance at various checkpoints along the ring road to ensure seamless coordination. Participant safety was a top priority, with a dedicated medical team and an ambulance strategically positioned to address any potential emergencies.
Echoing the theme of collective responsibility, the marathon was followed by a campus-wide plantation drive. Director Prof. Sharma, alongside faculty, staff, and students, actively participated, planting saplings and ensuring their initial care with water and organic fertilizers. This meaningful activity underscored a vital message: true unity extends beyond human connection to include a conscious commitment to a sustainable future. Such initiatives are pivotal in encouraging students to embrace environmentally responsible practices and acknowledge their essential role in preserving natural resources for generations to come.
To cap off the successful event, Prof. Sharma recognized and honored nine students from various batches and programs (IPL, IPM, and PGP) who achieved the fastest times in the 5 km run.
In his closing remarks, Prof. Sharma expressed deep appreciation, highlighting how these initiatives align perfectly with IIM Rohtak’s overarching vision: to cultivate future leaders who are not only physically robust but also deeply socially aware and ethically driven. He noted that the remarkable spirit of collaboration and determination showcased during the marathon truly embodies the core values the institute strives to instill in its students.
Currently, IIM Rohtak boasts an impressive enrollment of over 1800 students, making it the largest IIM and an institution of national importance. With its AMBA accreditation and a ranking among the top 2 percent of global management schools, the institute prides itself on fostering a diverse student body from a wide array of academic and professional backgrounds, further solidifying its growing reputation for academic and policy leadership.