The Fit India Sundays on Cycle event painted a vibrant picture of community spirit and wellness as it unfolded across the country. Leading the charge at the iconic Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad was Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, who passionately emphasized the significance of cycling in building a healthier and more prosperous India. With around 650 cyclists, including members of the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Gujarat, Ahmedabad Medical Association, and MPs Hasmukhbhai Patel and Dineshbhai Makwana, the event was flagged off by Paralympian athlete Bhavana Choudhary.
Dr. Mandaviya’s enthusiasm was palpable as he spoke about the growing “Sunday on Cycle” movement, which has steadily transformed into a cultural phenomenon. He proudly shared that the event was being held at over 5,000 locations nationwide, with doctors actively participating to promote the message of a fit and obesity-free India. He stressed that cycling should become an integral part of daily life, whether for commuting to work or running errands, as it not only improves physical fitness but also protects the environment and reduces pollution.
Highlighting the fight against obesity, which is a key initiative under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Fit India Movement, Dr. Mandaviya expressed hope that cycling could eventually be linked to carbon credit schemes in the future. He also urged doctors to prescribe cycling as a means to maintain good health and encouraged them to inspire their patients to adopt cycling as part of their lifestyle. His powerful message, “A healthy citizen builds a healthy society, and a healthy society can build a prosperous nation,” resonated with the crowd as he emphasized that achieving the vision of a developed India by 2047 requires a fit and active population.
In Delhi, the event gained further momentum with the participation of Guinness World Record holder Rohtash Chaudhary, famously known as the “Push-up Man of India.” At the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium, Rohtash inspired 500 cycling enthusiasts, including doctors, students, and corporate professionals. Known for his record of performing the most push-ups with one leg raised while carrying a 27.2 kg pack, Rohtash urged participants to embrace cycling not just on Sundays but as a daily habit. He highlighted the alarming fact that India ranks third globally in obesity after China and the USA, emphasizing the need to focus on fitness for the nation’s development.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) played a pivotal role in the event, organizing cycling rides in 25 locations across the country. Dr. Piyush Jain, Finance Secretary of IMA, stressed the importance of fitness in preventing lifestyle diseases. He highlighted that cycling is a full-body workout that not only enhances physical health but also boosts mental well-being. The event also incorporated push-up sessions to encourage participants to push their limits and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Since its launch in December 2024 by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative has expanded to over 4,500 locations nationwide. With active participation from SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), and Khelo India Centres (KICs), the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to promoting fitness and an active lifestyle among citizens. The event’s success stands as a testament to the collective effort of individuals and organizations dedicated to building a healthier, fitter, and more prosperous India.
