Cycling for Fitness and Unity: A Nationwide Initiative
On Sunday, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, joined Members of Parliament for a cycling event around India Gate and Kartavya Path. This was part of the ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ initiative, now in its 39th edition. The theme for this week was ‘Garv Se Swadeshi,’ encouraging the use of homegrown products.
The event kicked off at 7 AM from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, led by Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik. Over 1,500 cyclists and fitness lovers participated, with similar events happening at more than 8,000 locations across the country. This widespread effort involved collaboration with the Indian Railways, Cycling Federation of India, and several other organizations.
Notable MPs, including Bhagirath Chowdhury and Sanjay Seth, rode alongside Dr. Mandaviya. They were joined by over 250 Indian Railways employees, demonstrating support for one of the world’s largest railway networks.
After the ride, Dr. Mandaviya shared his excitement about the growing popularity of the ‘Sundays on Cycle’ movement. He urged citizens to use domestic products, emphasizing the importance of supporting Indian manufacturing.
He also expressed appreciation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent decision to lower the GST on sports goods from 12% to 5%. This change is expected to make sports equipment more accessible, stimulating local manufacturing and improving the country’s sports landscape.
Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, celebrated the event, highlighting the unity it fostered among participants. She echoed Dr. Mandaviya’s call for self-reliance and a healthier India.
Sakshi Malik expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, lauding the government’s push for fitness across the nation. “I encourage everyone to dedicate at least one hour daily to fitness and physical health,” she said.
Originally launched in December 2024, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative continues to grow, engaging people of all ages in fitness activities, from state capitals to sports hubs. This movement not only promotes health but also celebrates unity and pride in local products.
The response from the public has been fantastic, with many sharing their cycling experiences on social media. Hashtags like #SundaysOnCycle and #GarvSeSwadeshi have trended, showcasing a collective effort toward a fitter nation.
As we move forward, initiatives like this remind us of the importance of health, community, and supporting local industries. For more information on fitness and health benefits, you can check this WHO report on physical activity.
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