Fit India Cycling event promotes swadeshi spirit across 8,000 locations

New Delhi: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya cycled alongside Members of Parliament at India Gate and Kartavya Path during the 39th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle. This edition carried the special theme “Garv Se Swadeshi,” celebrating Indian-made products and encouraging citizens to adopt an active lifestyle with pride in local goods.

Cycling nationwide with Indian Railways partnership

The event was held simultaneously at 8,000 locations across the country, with the Indian Railways partnering as a key supporter. In New Delhi, the ride was flagged off at 7 AM from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium by Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik, with over 1,500 cyclists and fitness enthusiasts joining. More than 250 railway employees also participated, as the event paid tribute to the world’s fourth-largest railway network.

Participation of Members of Parliament

Several MPs joined the cycling initiative, including Bhagirath Chowdhury (MoS Agriculture), Sanjay Seth (MoS Defence), Navin Jindal, Purushottam Rupala, Prabhubhai Vasava, Hemang Joshi, Subhash Barala, Bhojraj Nag, and Ramesh Bidhuri, among others.

Mandaviya calls for fitness and swadeshi products

After completing the route, Dr. Mandaviya said, “Sundays on Cycle has become a mass movement creating awareness about active lifestyles. Today, under the theme of ‘Garv Se Swadeshi,’ I urge all citizens to use Made in Bharat products.” He also welcomed the recent GST cut on sports goods from 12% to 5%, saying it would boost affordability, increase participation in fitness, and strengthen Indian sports goods manufacturing.

Support from leaders and athletes

Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse called the event a remarkable movement uniting MPs, sportspersons, and citizens, reaffirming the commitment to a fitter and self-reliant India. Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik said she was delighted to join thousands of cyclists and emphasized dedicating an hour daily for physical fitness. She credited the Government’s initiatives for supporting sportspersons and promoting fitness nationwide.

Fit India Cycling movement expands nationwide

The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative, launched in December 2024, is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Yogasana Bharat, and MY Bharat. Events are held in state capitals, Union Territories, SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence, and Khelo India Centres, bringing together citizens of all age groups in a collective push for health and fitness.