New Delhi, Nov 2 (NationPress) The 46th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, titled ‘Pedal for Clean Air’, served as a powerful demonstration of the synergy between fitness and environmental consciousness today, as nearly 500 participants cycled through the streets of New Delhi, accompanied by thousands more from over 10,000 locations nationwide.

The Central Pollution Control Board, the Centre for Science and Environment, and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports have joined forces to advocate for clean air and healthy living.

This event, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in partnership with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Yogasana Bharat, and MY Bharat, featured significant participation from the CPCB and CSE, advocating the motto “Clean Air, Fit Body” as a collective objective for India.

At the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi, around 500 participants, including athletes, students, and fitness enthusiasts, engaged in the morning cycling rally. Notable figures such as gymnast Sneha Tariyal, an international medalist at the Asian Championships, and Priyanshu Nath Thakur, a sub-junior national gold medalist, were present, alongside Olympian gymnastics coach Lakhan Sharma.

Sunita Narain, Director-General of CSE, emphasized the vital connection between physical fitness and environmental health during the event. “Our air must be clean, and consequently, our health will improve,” she stated. “The initiatives by the Sports Ministry and SAI align perfectly with environmental cleanliness. Healthy lungs depend on clean air. Cycling is essential as it serves as a powerful tool against pollution.”

Reflecting on this notion, 15-year-old gymnast Priyanshu Nath Thakur expressed, “We all seek fresh air. Cycling enhances our physical and mental well-being.”

Nationwide, Fit India Sundays on Cycle events occurred concurrently, with locations such as SAI STC Kargil, SAI Lucknow, SAI Rohtak, and many more joining the initiative.

What started in December 2024 with around 500 participants in Delhi and 1,000 locations has blossomed into a vibrant movement that draws over 50,000 participants weekly from 6,000 locations. This initiative has engaged over 14.5 lakh citizens across 1.25 lakh locations, evolving into a national campaign for fitness, sustainability, and social cohesiveness.

Olympic gymnastics coach Lakhan Sharma shared insights about the movement's growth over the years. “This initiative is nearing a year now. We've welcomed countless participants from across the country, and we must continue to expand.”

Gymnast Sneha Tariyal noted that cycling benefits everyone, regardless of age or profession. “From the young to the elderly, everyone can cycle. It promotes health and helps reduce pollution. I see cyclists training daily at the IG Stadium where I train, and it builds their physique and strength. Everyone should cycle, run, and strive for fitness to inspire others.”

The importance of Fit India Sundays on Cycle was highlighted in the 117th episode of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat. He commended how diverse individuals unite every Sunday to promote health, joy, and unity through fitness. This movement is backed weekly by over 3,500 NaMo Fit India Cycling Clubs, which are integral to this citizen-driven fitness initiative, enabling thousands across India to partake in cycling and health celebrations every Sunday.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, the initiative has transformed into a genuine Jan Andolan for fitness, incorporating new groups and communities weekly. Participants have included members from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), doctors, teachers, government employees, schoolchildren, public representatives, lawyers, postmen, healthcare workers, and residents’ welfare associations.

These diverse participants, representing various professions and ages, have broadened the campaign's outreach across the nation, turning local streets and parks into lively centers of activity and community.