Maharashtra Student Runs 16km to College on First Day, Inspires Education and Fitness Movement

Updated 24 July 2025 04:15 PM

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Maharashtra Student Runs 16km to College on First Day, Inspires Education and Fitness Movement

Student's Remarkable Journey to College

Latur, Jul 24 (PTI) A Class 11 boy from a shelter home for underprivileged students marked his first day at a junior college in Maharashtra's Latur not by boarding a bus or riding a bicycle, but running for 16 km to reach the campus.

Inspiring Initiative Gains Recognition

An education department official lauded the boy's initiative to run for health and education, saying it was an inspiration for others. Rahul Rathod's run on Wednesday was not just a test of physical endurance but a powerful message on the importance of fitness, education and determination, the education and college officials said.

Background and Achievement

The boy, son of sugarcane labourers and inmate of a local shelter home for underprivileged students for the last six years, covered the distance on foot in 1 hour and 15 minutes without using any public transport.

Warm Welcome at College

Upon reaching the college premises, its principal, staff and Latur district education department's assistant director Sanjay Panchgalle welcomed him. "He has set a new benchmark of inspiration. Students like Rahul enrich the spirit of educational institutions," Panchgalle said on the occasion.

Future Aspirations and Athletic Background

Passionate about javelin throw and weightlifting, the boy has participated in marathons in Dharashiv, Latur and Pune, and said he aspires to join the Indian Police Service and represent the country in the Olympics. PTI COR GKPassionate about javelin throw and weightlifting, the boy has participated in marathons in Dharashiv, Latur and Pune, and said he aspires to join the Indian Police Service and represent the country in the Olympics. 

This report includes content sourced from Press Trust of India (PTI), edited for clarity and context.

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