Mandaviya’s Call for a Fitter, Cleaner India
Highlighting the dual benefits of cycling, Dr Mandaviya said, “Cycling is a great tool for fighting obesity and a solution to pollution.” He added that the FIT India mobile app allows citizens to track carbon savings, monitor health indicators, and stay motivated to exercise regularly.
The Minister stressed the importance of participation from rural and urban areas alike. He reminded citizens that small lifestyle changes, such as cycling to work or around villages, can have a major impact on health and the environment.
In the national capital, more than 1,200 cyclists gathered at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. They enjoyed cycling alongside sessions of Zumba, meditation, yoga, and rope skipping, conducted by wellness coach Dr Shikha Gupta. The event turned into a festival of fitness, drawing families and youth alike.
National Games medallist in fencing, Beni Quebha, who participated for the first time, praised the initiative. “It was so nice to see people enjoying different activities like yoga, Zumba, badminton, and net cricket in one place. The morning began with high energy, and the message was clear—we must adopt an active lifestyle to stay fit,” she said.
Fellow fencer Naziya Shaik also pledged her support, emphasizing the importance of spreading awareness about obesity and air pollution in Tier 1 and smaller cities.
Railways Join the Fitness Drive
More than 100 riders from the Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) participated at the Patiala Locomotive Works. The event was integrated with the Indian Railways’ cycling training camp, showcasing the institution’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles among employees and athletes.
A Nationwide Fitness Campaign
The Fit India Sundays on Cycle campaign is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India, Raahgiri Foundation, My Bikes, and MY Bharat. Events are held across state capitals, SAI Regional Centres, Khelo India Centres, and National Centres of Excellence, bringing together people of all ages.
By merging health, sustainability, and community participation, the initiative is fast becoming one of India’s largest citizen-led movements for fitness. According to the Ministry, the mission aims not just to encourage physical activity but also to build a culture of conscious, sustainable living.