Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya gave a powerful message for a healthier and addiction-free India as he led more than 3000 cyclists at the Fit India Sundays on Cycle event in Varanasi.
Massive Turnout for a National Cause
The 32nd edition of the Fit India cycling initiative took place at the lush campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU). The event drew an energetic crowd of over 3000 individuals — from students and fitness enthusiasts to community leaders and government officials.
Dr Mandaviya rode alongside the participants and emphasized, “A healthy body builds a healthy mind, and a healthy mind builds a Viksit Bharat.”
The event marked a strong step under the larger campaign, Nasha-Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat. Supported by CBSE, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, CISCE, DAV, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Bal Bharati schools, it became a mass movement at over 6000 locations across India on the same day.
“We can only achieve our Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi ji’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by eliminating drug addiction among youth,” Mandaviya told the crowd, which responded with cheers and commitment.
Cycling Through History at BHU
The cycling route passed through BHU’s iconic landmarks — Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Malviya Bhawan, IIT Chauraha, Vishwanath Temple — before ending at the Amphitheatre Ground. The scenic ride promoted not just health, but cultural pride and community bonding.
Fitness Beyond Cycling
Along with cycling, participants engaged in yoga, meditation, Zumba, and other recreational activities. It was a holistic wellness celebration. Several fitness corners were also set up for badminton, rope skipping, and board games like chess, ludo, carrom, and mini-golf.
Political and Local Support Boosts Morale
Joining the movement were several dignitaries, including:
- Union Minister of State Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse
- UP Sports Minister Girish Chandra Yadav
- MLAs Ravindra Jaiswal, Awdesh Singh, and Saurav Srivastava
- MLCs Dharmendra Singh and Hansraj
- Divisional Commissioner of Varanasi S. Rajalingam
- SAI Regional Director Atma Prakash
Smt. Khadse later said, “The youth now understands the dangers of drugs. With this initiative, we are planting the seeds of a healthy and empowered future.”
Delhi Edition Sees Enthusiastic Participation
Meanwhile, the Delhi edition also witnessed over 1000 students from more than 300 schools cycling across the city. Top athletes like Esow Alben, Mayuri Lute, and Sushikala Agashe joined to encourage the young riders.
“When I visited my hometown in Andaman, I saw people cycling as part of Fit India. It’s become a true grassroots movement,” said Esow, an Asian Championship medalist.
Partners Powering the Movement
This campaign is spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with:
- Cycling Federation of India (CFI)
- Raahgiri Foundation
- My Bikes
- MY Bharat
- Dr Shikha Gupta’s Rope Skipping team
It is conducted simultaneously across State capitals, Union Territories, SAI centres, Khelo India centres, and schools nationwide, ensuring large-scale reach.
Why This Matters
Drug abuse among youth remains a significant concern. According to a PIB report, the Government of India has identified youth engagement in fitness and community initiatives as a preventive strategy.
Events like Fit India Sundays on Cycle do more than promote physical health — they build discipline, awareness, and unity. The impact is visible. Youth are stepping up. Schools are taking charge. Families are participating together.
India Pedals Towards a Healthier Future
From Varanasi to Andaman, from Delhi to thousands of towns, the wheels are in motion. And at the center of it all are young Indians, choosing health over habits, cycles over substances, and unity over isolation.
As Dr Mandaviya rightly said — a fit youth leads to a fit India. And a fit India leads to a Viksit Bharat.