The 72nd edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle unfolded across India on Sunday, 4 May 2025, transforming into a nationwide tribute to the country's farmers under the special theme of the "Annadata Fitness Ride". Farmers, agricultural stakeholders, students, and citizens pedalled together in cities from New Delhi to Ludhiana, carrying a unified message of health, sustainability, and rural solidarity, in an initiative inspired by the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

What Unfolded in New Delhi

At the Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Swimming Pool Complex in New Delhi, the morning opened with high-energy Zumba sessions, yoga zones, rope skipping, and interactive game areas, creating a festival-like atmosphere before the flag-off. Riders then took to the cycling route carrying the message: "Pedal chalao, prakriti bachao" — pedal forward, save nature.

Key dignitaries in attendance included Anissa Nabi Jikas, Chief Sports Officer of the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council and a Fit India Ambassador; Krishna Kumar of Bhartiya Kisan Sangh; and Vikram Singh Farswan, National In-charge of Agrivision Bharat, along with representatives from agriculture and youth bodies.

Speaking at the event, Anissa Nabi said, "Cycling is an activity that people of all age groups can take up. It helps us stay fit, healthy, and active, and brings people together through fitness." Krishna Kumar of Bhartiya Kisan Sangh added, "Cycling is commonly used in farms and villages. This is a meaningful initiative that promotes both health and awareness."

Voices from the Ground

Everyday participants reflected the event's spirit. Ramesh Yadav, a participant from Rohini, said, "I came thinking it's just a cycle ride, but this feels like a celebration of our farmers and our lifestyle." College student Priya Sharma noted, "Seeing farmers and youth ride together is inspiring. It shows fitness can unite everyone." Another participant, Sunil Mehta, added, "The energy here motivates you to make cycling a daily habit, not just a Sunday activity."

Nationwide Reach of the Annadata Theme

Beyond the capital, the Annadata theme resonated strongly across states. At Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University in Hisar, a large-scale fitness ride was organised in collaboration with Fit India and Agrivision Haryana, drawing agricultural students, farmers, and university officials including Dr. Vinod Kumar Verma and Dr. Madan Khichar.

In Gwalior, students of the Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE) led a cycling rally through the city under Vice Chancellor Prof. Kalpana Sharma, spreading awareness on environmental conservation and active living. In Bikaner, the ride drew students and stakeholders under the guidance of Dr. B.N. Sarangi and the Agrivision team. Punjab Agricultural University in Ludhiana hosted a vibrant edition supported by local administration and student leaders. Dharwad saw participants blend cycling with basketball and fitness drills.

About Fit India Sundays on Cycle

The initiative is organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Indian Rope Skipping Federation, Yogasana Bharat, Raahgiri Foundation, MY Bikes, and MY Bharat. Launched in December 2024 by Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the programme has grown into what organisers describe as a jan andolan (people's movement), recording cumulative participation of over 28 lakh citizens across more than 2.63 lakh locations nationwide since its inception.

The drive runs simultaneously across all states and Union Territories, including SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), SAI Training Centres (STCs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs), and Khelo India Centres (KICs). With farmers placed at the heart of the 72nd edition, the programme reinforced its broader goal of connecting health, environment, and those who sustain the nation's food security.