Indian model-actor and fitness star Milind Soman has decided to participate in a Sikkim marathon dedicated to the drivers of the state.

“I am thrilled to share that I will be joining you for the West Point Sikkim Sarathi Run on February 18 for a great cause. Big thank you... for organising this run dedicated to the unsung heroes, our sarathis. I eagerly anticipate your full participation as we shine our spotlight on their remarkable contributions,” said Soman.

Sikkim chief minister Prem Singh Tamang (Golay) last year announced that July 27 would be observed as a restricted holiday dedicated to drivers, to be officially referred to as “sarathis".

Golay also announced the formation of the Sikkim Sarathi Welfare Board for professional sarathis and their families.

Dipankar Lama, the additional director of Gangtok Smart City Ltd, one of the organisers, said: "This inaugural run marks a special dedication to the esteemed gurujis (another term for drivers) and sarathis in Sikkim. The core purpose behind this event is to position Sikkim as a leading running destination nationally, shedding light on the pivotal role played by the sarathis in fostering the state's tourism growth," Lama added.

The 10-km run to be held in Gangtok will have Rs 12.5 lakh in prize money.

The run has also attracted international runners like Mira Rai from Nepal. "My team from Nepal is eager to participate in this event," said Rai.

Many say chief minister Golay believes that the drivers of the state were his core supporters during the 2019 Sikkim Assembly polls, when Golay unseated Pawan Chamling who had ruled the state for 25 years.

Sonam Ondup Bhutia, the chairman of the All Sikkim Chalak Welfare Board, a state-level association of drivers, thanked Golay.