Thousands Pedal for Clean Air in Nationwide Cycling Initiative

The 46th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, themed “Pedal for Clean Air,” successfully united thousands of participants across India. The main event took place in New Delhi, where nearly 500 citizens cycled through the streets, promoting both fitness and environmental awareness.

Organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India, Yogasana Bharat, and MY Bharat, this initiative emphasizes the shared goal of clean air and physical fitness. Special participation from the Central Pollution Control Board and the Centre for Science and Environment reinforced the message that “Clean Air, Fit Body” should be a national priority.

Delhi Leads the Charge for Fitness and Clean Air

The cycling rally commenced at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in Delhi, where athletes, students, and fitness enthusiasts gathered. Notable figures included gymnast Sneha Tariyal, a medalist at the Asian Championships, and Priyanshu Nath Thakur, a sub-junior national gold medalist. Lakhan Sharma, an Olympian gymnastics coach, also participated.

During the event, Sunita Narain, Director-General of the Centre for Science and Environment, highlighted the importance of clean air for health. She stated, “Our air has to be clean, and in the same way, our health will improve.” Narain emphasized that cycling is a crucial method to combat pollution.

Echoing her sentiments, the young gymnast Priyanshu Nath Thakur remarked, “We are all looking for fresh air. Cycling keeps our body and mind healthy and strong.”

A Nationwide Movement for Fitness and Sustainability

Beyond New Delhi, similar events unfolded simultaneously at over 10,000 locations across the country, including SAI STC Kargil, SAI Lucknow, and SAI Guwahati. What began in December 2024 with around 500 participants has evolved into a vibrant movement, attracting more than 50,000 people weekly.

To date, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative has engaged over 1.45 million citizens across 125,000 locations, fostering fitness, sustainability, and community spirit. Lakhan Sharma remarked on the growth of the initiative, stating, “This is a great initiative which has been completed for close to a year now. So many people have joined us across the length and breadth of the country.”

Gymnast Sneha Tariyal emphasized that cycling benefits individuals of all ages and professions. “Old to young, everyone is here to cycle. It keeps you healthy and helps combat pollution,” she said.

The impact of Fit India Sundays on Cycle was further acknowledged in the 117th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat, where he praised the movement for uniting citizens from various backgrounds every Sunday.

Guided by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, the initiative has transformed into a true “Jan Andolan” for fitness, drawing in diverse groups including Central Armed Police Forces, doctors, teachers, and schoolchildren. These various participants have contributed to turning local streets and parks into spaces of energy and camaraderie, reinforcing the campaign’s reach across the nation.

As the movement continues to grow, it not only advocates for fitness but also champions the vital cause of environmental health, encouraging citizens to cycle towards a cleaner future.