Kickstarting the 5th National March for Life

Over 1,000 participants from all walks of life gathered in Chennai early this morning to participate in Run for Life 2026, a 5K mini marathon flagging off the two-day 5th National March for Life. The marathon, which stretched from the iconic Napier Bridge to the landmark Santhome Cathedral Basilica, aimed to raise widespread public awareness about the dignity, value, and sanctity of every human life. The event was organised by CHARIS India, an organ of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), and hosted by the Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore. The 5th National March for Life stands as India's largest annual life-awareness initiative, uniting people across the country to affirm the dignity and value of every human life from conception to natural death. The programme is open to people of all religions, backgrounds, and communities. This year's initiative carries significant weight as 2026 marks 55 years since the enactment of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971. According to a study published in The Lancet (2015), an estimated 15.6 million abortions occur annually in India, highlighting the vast number of unborn lives lost since the legislation's passage. Now in its fifth year, the National March for Life seeks to address these concerns by fostering dialogue and awareness through interactive exhibitions, Life Conferences, vibrant public gatherings, and a peaceful march. "The National March for Life is an invitation to society to recognise the inherent dignity of every human person, and support for families while fostering a culture that cherishes every human life," said a representative of the organising committee during the event kickoff. The enthusiasm displayed at the 5K mini marathon set a high-energy tone for the remainder of the programme in Chennai. Participants ranged from youth groups and families to religious leaders and social advocates, all running under the shared message of protecting human life, including the child in the womb. The organizers expressed their gratitude to the local authorities, volunteers, and the citizens of Chennai for their overwhelming support in ensuring the smooth conduct of the marathon along the coastal route.