GTECH Marathon 2026: Official Launch to Kerala’s Largest IT-led Movement Against Drugs

KOCHI:
Kerala’s apex body of tech companies officially launched the GTECH Marathon 2026 as a state-wide anti-drugs movement, marking a powerful collaboration of the state’s technology ecosystem to address pressing social challenges around substance abuse.

The Group of Technology Companies (GTECH), which represents 300-plus IT companies in Kerala, will host the fourth edition of the 2026 marathon on February 15 in the city. Falling on a Sunday, the event is expected to witness participation from more than 10,000 runners, making it the largest marathon in the state, according to organisers.

The official website www.gtechmarathon.com has gone live. Participants can now register and access event updates to become part of the mission.

The previous edition drew more than 7,500 runners amid an overwhelming public support.

The annual GTECH Marathon is not just a sporting event, but a movement that brings together over 300 IT companies across Kerala in a unified effort to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, especially among youth, The aim is to champion a healthier and more conscious society, according to the organisers, about the initiative that aligns with the state government’s ‘Drugs Free Kerala’ campaign amid efforts to amplify its impact through a community-driven effort.

The GTECH Marathon 2026 will feature four race categories: half marathon (21.1 km), 10-km run, 6-km run and fun run of 3 km. Open to participants of all ages and abilities, the marathon will welcome people from all walks of life and backgrounds, encouraging collective action and shared purpose.

“This is a coming together of more than one lakh IT professionals in Kerala for a common purpose,” says GTECH Chairman V.K. Mathews, who is Executive Chairman at IBS Software.. “As a responsible community, we are determined to act on the issues that matter. The GTECH Marathon is more than a run — it is a movement of hope, responsibility, and change.”