Dehradun, Oct. 26 -- Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday presided over in the 'Adi Kailash Parikrama Run 2.0' in Pithoragarh district's Gunji and awarded the winners of the 70-km and 42-km races. He also announced that the state government would organise the '100 Miles Himalayan Endurance Ultra Run' from Mana Pass to Auli in the first week of May next year. Rang community members welcomed Dhami on his arrival in Gunji by adorning him in traditional attire. Speaking at event, Dhami said that taking part in such a competition amid the challenging terrain, harsh weather conditions and limited oxygen levels in the region was an achievement in itself. He praised the runners who from different states wished all participants the best. He also thanked the Indian Army, Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) for their support to ensure the event's success. Over 700 runners participated in the first edition of the 'Adi Kailash Parikrama Run'," Dhami said, adding that the success of the event had brought "fresh recognition to the potential for adventure tourism in the Adi Kailash region". He said the number of Inner Line Permits issued for the region had increased significantly this year compared to last year, reflecting its growing appeal among tourists and pilgrims. Dhami said the government is promoting tourism in border areas to create new employment and self-employment opportunities for local residents. Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach towards border villages, he said efforts were being made to develop them as "first villages" rather than "last villages". He said events such as the run could strengthen the local economy by benefiting homestay operators, local guides, transport service providers and people working in hospitality and food services. "The state government's objective is to ensure that the benefits of tourism development reach local communities directly, while also helping to curb migration from these border villages," Dhami said. He said Uttarakhand was being developed as a major hub for adventure tourism, with activities such as trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, kayaking, paragliding, mountain cycling and angling being promoted. Announcing the plans for the upcoming event, the chief minister said that the 100 Miles Himalayan Endurance Ultra Run" would begin at Mana Pass, situated at an altitude of about 5,600 metres, and proceed through Badrinath and Joshimath before reaching Auli....