Dr Mandaviya Leads Fit India Cycling Drive in Varanasi
In a major step towards a healthier, addiction-free India, Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya will lead a special edition of ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ on July 20, 2025 from the iconic Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in Varanasi.
This edition, themed ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’, focuses on eradicating substance abuse among India’s youth and promoting fitness as a national movement.
With 65% of India’s population under 35, addiction is emerging as a major roadblock to national progress. Youth affected by substance abuse are often trapped at critical stages of life, affecting education, employment, and mental health.
This cycling initiative is more than just a fitness drive. It’s a mass movement to protect India’s future. It spreads awareness, inspires action, and celebrates health as a core value for building a Viksit Bharat.
Nationwide Movement with Massive Participation
This will be the 32nd edition of the Fit India cycling series. It will be organized simultaneously at 6,000+ locations across India.
The campaign is supported by key institutions like CBSE, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, CISCE, DAV College Management Committee, Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, and Bal Bharati Public School.
Dr Mandaviya has called upon 15 lakh schools to join the cause. He emphasized the need for collective commitment to a healthier and drug-free India.
Words from the Minister
“Youth are the nation builders of tomorrow. A healthy youth can take the country to prosperity. Addiction is a grave threat to development. I urge every school and every child to pedal for a Nasha-Mukt Viksit Bharat,” said Dr Mandaviya.
He added that India can become Viksit Bharat by 2047 only if its youth are free from addiction and health risks like obesity and sedentary lifestyle.
Delhi to Join with Enthusiasm
In the capital, the cycling rally will begin at 7 AM from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. Thousands of school children from the National Capital Region (NCR) will participate, sending a strong message of unity and awareness.
Who Makes It Possible?
The cycling event is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in collaboration with:
- Cycling Federation of India (CFI)
- My Bikes
- MY Bharat
The ride will also be held in state and UT capitals, SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence, and Khelo India Centres, ensuring pan-India impact.
Powerful Support from Every Corner
This initiative is not new. Since its launch in December 2024, it has become a weekly ritual, attracting over 50,000 participants each week.
Earlier editions saw participation from:
- Indian Army, CRPF, and ITBP personnel
- GST Council and Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs)
- PEFI and physical education advocates
- Sports icons like The Great Khali, Lovlina Borgohain, Rani Rampal, Nitu Ghanghas, and many others
- Paralympians such as Manisha Ramadass and Rubina Francis
- Celebrities including Rahul Bose, Gul Panag, and Amit Sial
India Pedals for Progress
Each Sunday, thousands of young Indians cycle for their future. They cycle for freedom from drugs, for better health, and for a stronger nation.
This campaign is a model of grassroots participation. Schools, institutions, security forces, and celebrities have joined hands to build a drug-free Bharat.
Every pedal stroke is a message of hope, strength, and unity.
Conclusion
As India rides toward its 2047 vision, initiatives like Fit India Sundays on Cycle are laying a strong foundation. With leadership from figures like Dr Mandaviya and support from millions, this is more than a fitness movement—it’s a national transformation.
Let’s join the ride. Let’s cycle for a Fit India and Nasha Mukt Yuva.