A massive gathering at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium marked the National Capital’s observance of World Bicycle Day, led by Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya alongside actor Vikrant Massey and boxer Nupur Sheoran. More than 15,000 cycling enthusiasts pedaled in New Delhi, with over 4 lakh participants nationwide from various locations like Kargil, Leh, Kanyakumari, and Alleppey to Tripura and Vadodara.
Initiated by Mandaviya in December 2024, the cycling campaign has impacted over 30 lakh individuals and numerous sites in India. The Union Sports Minister engaged in a friendly tug of war with Vikrant Massey and cycled with fellow riders chanting patriotic slogans like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Fit India, Hit India.”
Various government bodies such as the Coast Guard, Army, Navy, Air Force, and security forces like CISF, BSF, CRPF, ITBP, and SSB actively participated nationwide. Stressing the health benefits of cycling, Mandaviya highlighted its role in promoting physical and mental well-being, reducing fuel consumption, combating traffic congestion, and supporting Prime Minister Modi’s Fit India Movement.
Institutions like NCC, Agrivision, Kisan Sanghs, athletes, volunteers, and cycling clubs, supported by sponsors like Heka, Fitspire, Desi Farms, Avon Cycles, and Cyclofit, joined the cycling initiative. Municipal Corporations organized cycling events, while the Cycling Federation of India held exclusive tournaments for women and collaborated with the international cycling body, UCI.
Actor Vikrant Massey reminisced about childhood memories through the Fit India Sundays on Cycle, emphasizing the importance of physical activity amidst sedentary lifestyles. Boxer Nupur Sheoran praised the initiative for raising awareness about fitness and encouraged daily physical activity like cycling for at least 15-30 minutes.
Renowned athletes like Prachi Tomar and Shivani Pradhania participated in the cyclothon, which also featured various fun activities like badminton, chess, and tug of war. Fit India Sundays on Cycle, organized by MYAS in partnership with CFI, Yogasana Bharat, Raahgiri Foundation, and MY Bharat, spans all States, Union Territories, and sports centers across India.
