Kolkata, March 8 (NationPress) Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya stated on Sunday that empowering women is fundamental in fortifying families and society. He emphasized the necessity for increased involvement of women in sports and fitness endeavors as a cornerstone for the nation's advancement.

Mandaviya engaged in the FIT INDIA Pink Cyclothon in Kolkata, commemorating International Women’s Day and advocating for women’s fitness and cycling. The nationwide initiative, Sunday on Cycle, attracted enthusiastic participation from citizens, reinforcing the ideals of fitness, sustainability, and community involvement.

In his address to the crowd, the minister urged individuals to embrace cycling as an uncomplicated yet effective method for achieving a healthier lifestyle while aiding in environmental conservation. He remarked that such initiatives foster a culture of fitness and shared responsibility among the populace.

Mandaviya highlighted the significance of women’s engagement in sports and community life, asserting that empowering women equates to empowering society. He declared, “When women thrive, families and society flourish, directly contributing to our nation's development.” He advocated for enhanced support and opportunities for women and girls in sports and fitness, noting that inclusive participation bolsters communities and propels national progress.

Notable participants in the Cyclothon included Bombayla Devi Laishram, Olympian and Arjuna Awardee; Avinash Kumar Gupta, Chief Commissioner of Bharat Scouts, Kolkata; Piyali Basak, Mount Everest Summiteer; Adrija Sarkhel, goalkeeper of the Indian Women’s Football Team; and Smt. Sushmita Singha Roy, Olympian.

Initiated in December 2024 by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Fit India Sundays on Cycle has evolved into a significant mass movement, engaging over 25 million citizens across more than 250,000 locations nationwide. This campaign is part of the broader Fit India Movement, launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on August 29, 2019, aiming to embed fitness into daily routines and inspire a shift towards active lifestyles.

The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative occurs weekly and is orchestrated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India and partners including the Cycling Federation of India, Mallakhamb Association, Kudo Association, NaMo Cycling Clubs, Indian Rope Skipping Federation, My Bharat, and Yogasana Bharat. This week's edition was particularly focused on women's empowerment.