New Delhi, April 20 (NationPress) The Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, spearheaded the nationwide FIT India Sundays on Cycle initiative in Bhayavadar, Rajkot, riding alongside enthusiastic My Bharat volunteers from Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) and National Service Scheme (NSS). Approximately 200 individuals pedalled with zeal, representing a united pledge towards a healthier, more active, and obesity-free India.

This cycling event was simultaneously held in multiple locations throughout India, including the capitals of all States and Union Territories as well as SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), and Khelo India Centres (KICs).

At the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, the atmosphere was vibrant as over 600 citizens engaged in various fitness activities like Zumba and rope skipping before cycling alongside the well-known actor and Rugby India president, Rahul Bose. The animated crowd also participated in a fun contest featuring the renowned push-up expert, Rohtash Choudhary.

Speaking to the large audience, Bose commented, “The Sundays on Cycle initiative is a remarkable program. While fitness is essential, what distinguishes this campaign is the sense of community it builds. Cycling is excellent for cardiovascular health, and doing it with others enhances the experience significantly. Sundays on Cycle is bringing together a community of fitness lovers in a vital movement. There’s undeniable joy in participating as a group.”

On the topic of fitness beyond mere physical activity, he stated, "I don’t visit the gym often; if I do, it’s primarily for strength training. I’ve always preferred playing sports. I enjoy running tracks, playing squash, badminton, football, and rugby. I actively pursue opportunities to engage with a team.”

At the SAI Regional Centre Lucknow, more than 100 participants gathered at the CRPF Grounds, Sainik Colony, to promote the message of fitness and health. In SAI RC Mumbai, the event took place at two different venues, facilitated by My Bharat volunteers, engaging children and their parents from local communities in interactive and educational activities.

So far, the nationwide cycling initiative has been conducted at over 5000 locations since December 2024, with an estimated participation of more than 250,000 individuals. Previous events featured participation from Indian Army personnel, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), and notable sports figures such as Lovlina Borgohain, Sangram Singh, Shanky Singh, Nitu Ghanghas, Saweety Boora, Paris Paralympics medallists Nitesh Kumar, Manisha Ramadass, Rubina Francis, and Simran Sharma (para world champion), alongside celebrities like Amit Sial and Gul Panag.

The Fit India Sundays on Cycle movement is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), in association with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), My Bikes, and My Bharat.

Applauding the Government of India’s Khelo India mission, Rugby India president Bose remarked, “Khelo India has significantly transformed the sports landscape in recent years. The introduction of the Rugby 7 women’s game in the ASMITA League has attracted numerous girls and women to the sport. Indian women are making impressive progress, with our women’s team ranked 10th in Asia, surpassing the men’s team, which is ranked 15th.

“This initiative, which brings women from all corners of the nation to participate, has been extraordinary. We are truly thankful to Khelo India, Fit India, and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports for their relentless efforts to promote sports and fitness throughout India.”