New Delhi witnessed an energetic start to the weekend as Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, flagged off the ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ initiative at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. This nationwide event, part of the ongoing Fit India Cycling Drive, reflects a renewed commitment to fitness and environmental consciousness.

The event saw an impressive turnout of over 500 participants, including personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), athletes from the Sports Authority of India, and young gymnasts from the Indira Gandhi Stadium. Distinguished figures such as former WWE star Shanky Singh added star power to the morning, further energizing the crowd.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the campaign’s scale and significance. “The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative is being held simultaneously at over 1,100 locations across India. Cycling is not just a mode of transport; it is a pathway to better health and a cleaner environment,” he said. He added that initiatives like this align with the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat,’ highlighting how a healthier individual contributes to a robust society and nation.

A Collaborative Movement

The campaign, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) and MY Bharat, extends across Sports Authority of India regional centers, National Centers of Excellence, and Khelo India centers nationwide. Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee Mouma Das launched a parallel event in Kolkata, demonstrating the initiative's extensive reach.

Dr. Mandaviya also drew connections to the broader Fit India Movement initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019, underlining cycling's role in promoting holistic health and sustainability.

Prominent Voices and Shared Enthusiasm

Former WWE wrestler Shanky Singh expressed his excitement about the initiative, pledging to promote cycling globally. “The energy here is electrifying. Wherever I go, I will advocate for cycling as a fitness and sustainability tool,” he said.

CRPF Director General Sh. Anish Dayal Singh highlighted the Force's enthusiasm for fitness, stating, “A fit force serves the nation best. Cycling benefits individual health and environmental well-being. We are proud to contribute to this campaign.”

Adding to the momentum, BYCS India Foundation, a nonprofit promoting cycling, participated actively in the initiative. Dr. Bhairavi Joshi, CEO of BYCS India Foundation, said, “Cycling offers simple solutions to complex urban challenges. Our network of Bicycle Mayors across 50 cities will continue advocating for cycling access and skills nationwide.”

Building Momentum for a Healthier Nation

The ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ initiative serves as a reminder of the collective effort required to address modern health and environmental challenges. As citizens take to the roads on their bicycles, they embody a growing movement for a healthier and more sustainable India.