Fundraising Surpasses ₹8.87 Crore, with NGOs, Runners and Corporates Driving the Momentum
New Delhi, October 13, 2026: The Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon (VDHM) 2026 has set a new benchmark in philanthropy, raising over ₹8.87 crore ahead of Race Day. The initiative has brought together 72 non-governmental organisations (NGOs), 14 corporate partners and individual fundraisers to support social causes spanning healthcare, education, livelihoods, gender equality, disability inclusion and environmental sustainability.
Since its inception in 2005, the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon has emerged as one of India’s leading sporting platforms for philanthropy, raising over ₹97.5 crore cumulatively and supporting more than 500 NGOs. The initiative continues to demonstrate how sports and community participation can extend their impact beyond the finish line.
This year’s fundraising achievement marks a significant milestone, more than doubling the ₹4.12 crore raised in 2025. The success reflects the collective efforts of runners, nonprofits, corporate partners and individual donors committed to creating a positive social impact.
Lakshyaa Continues as Official Philanthropy Partner
For the second consecutive year, Lakshyaa has partnered with the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon as its Official Philanthropy Partner, facilitating responsible fundraising and bringing together nonprofits, corporates, individual fundraisers and the running community.
Commenting on the achievement, Nikhil Pant, Founder and Partner, Lakshyaa, said that VDHM 2026 exemplifies how sports, fitness and community engagement can come together to create meaningful and lasting social impact. He reaffirmed Lakshyaa’s commitment to strengthening the philanthropy platform and encouraging greater participation in causes that matter to communities.
Deepak Sharma Sets Individual Fundraising Record
Deepak Sharma, the Change Icon of VDHM 2026, emerged as the highest individual fundraiser, raising an impressive ₹31 lakh in support of Udayan Care, an organisation dedicated to empowering vulnerable children, youth and women. His achievement establishes a new individual fundraising record at the event.
Another inspiring contribution came from 15-year-old Rehaan Gayan, a Class 10 student, who raised ₹50,000 for ETASHA Society, an organisation working in skill development and livelihood enhancement. His efforts highlight how young people can play an important role in driving social change.
Corporate Participation and the Fight Against Hunger
Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC) has contributed to the philanthropy movement through its support for social causes, reflecting the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in advancing education, healthcare, sanitation, environmental sustainability and community development.
Vedanta, the title sponsor of the event, is also advancing its commitment to combat malnutrition through its social impact initiative, Nand Ghar. Under the #RunForZeroHunger campaign, every kilometre covered by participants will contribute towards Vedanta’s pledge to provide five million Poshan Packs to support the nutritional needs of children and animals.
Building on previous editions, the initiative has helped provide 22 million meals over the past four years, demonstrating how sporting participation can translate into meaningful social impact.
Vivek B. Singh, Joint Managing Director, Procam International, said the fundraising achievement reflects the collective efforts of Lakshyaa, runners, NGOs and corporate partners. He noted that philanthropy has increasingly become an integral part of Delhi’s social fabric, with people using the marathon as a platform to support causes close to their hearts.
Fundraising Campaign Open Until October 31
The 21st edition of the Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon is scheduled for October 18, 2026. The philanthropy campaign will remain open until October 31, inviting individuals, running clubs, institutions and corporates to participate and raise funds for causes they believe in.
Contributions can be made through the official philanthropy platform: https://vdhm.lakshyaa.co.in/
