A Nationwide Movement
The cycling drive, organised at over 8,000 locations across India, is a joint initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), the Cycling Federation of India, Yogasana Bharat and MY Bharat. In New Delhi, Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik flagged off the event from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium at 7 AM. More than 1,500 cyclists and fitness enthusiasts took part in the capital, including MPs Bhagirath Chowdhury, Sanjay Seth, Navin Jindal, Purushottam Rupala, Prabhubhai Vasava, Hemang Joshi, Subhash Barala, Bhojraj Nag, and Ramesh Bidhuri.
The edition also paid tribute to Indian Railways, one of the world’s largest networks, with over 250 railway employees joining the rally. Across the country, events were simultaneously held at state capitals, SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence, and Khelo India centres.
‘Garv Se Swadeshi’ Spotlight
This edition of Sundays on Cycle showcased Indian sportswear and fitness brands through dedicated stalls, giving participants the chance to experience and purchase swadeshi products. Dr. Mandaviya urged citizens to choose Made in Bharat items as part of the fitness movement. “I am pleased to see the growing participation in Sundays on Cycle. It has become a mass movement, spreading awareness about active lifestyles. Today, I cycled under the theme of ‘Garv Se Swadeshi’ and I urge all citizens to use Made in Bharat products,” he said.
GST Relief for Sports Goods
Highlighting the government’s recent policy move, Dr. Mandaviya thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for reducing the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on most sports goods from 12% to 5%. “This will make sports items more affordable, encouraging wider participation in fitness and sports. Increased demand will also boost Indian manufacturers and strengthen the sporting ecosystem,” he added.
Voices of Support
Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse pledged support for the “#GarvSeSwadeshi” campaign, reaffirming the government’s commitment to an Atmanirbhar and fitter Bharat. “The event brought together MPs, Olympic champion Sakshi Malik and dignitaries from SAI and Indian Railways in a vibrant show of unity,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Olympian Sakshi Malik also praised the initiative, recalling that the Fit India Movement was launched by Prime Minister Modi in 2019 and the cycling edition was started in 2024 by Dr. Mandaviya. “It was my first experience to cycle with thousands of people and MPs. I urge everyone to dedicate an hour daily for their fitness,” she said.
Growing Impact
The Fit India Movement has steadily grown into a mass campaign encouraging healthier lifestyles across age groups. The Sundays on Cycle initiative has given the programme a participatory, community-driven dimension. By combining fitness, sustainability, and national pride, the campaign continues to inspire lakhs of Indians every weekend.
