Varanasi: In a vibrant celebration of fitness, health, and youth empowerment, the 32nd edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle was held at the iconic Banaras Hindu University (BHU) campus in Varanasi, led by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya. The event, marked by enthusiasm and a strong anti-drug message, witnessed the participation of over 3000 individuals, with cycling rallies, yoga sessions, and fitness activities echoing the call for a “Nasha-Mukt Viksit Bharat.”
Fit India on the Move: Varanasi Joins Hands for a Healthier Tomorrow
The event commenced from the Amphitheatre Ground at BHU, with a sea of cyclists – young students, fitness enthusiasts, officials, and citizens – riding through the university’s green, serene paths. The cycling route passed notable locations including Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Malviya Bhawan, Birla Hostel, IIT Chauraha, and Vishwanath Temple.
Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, himself taking part in the ride, passionately addressed the crowd, saying:
“A healthy body leads to a healthy mind, and only a healthy mind can drive a Viksit Bharat. We must protect our youth from the trap of substance abuse.”
He also declared Sundays on Cycle as a “Jan Andolan” (people’s movement), emphasizing the mission to build a fit, drug-free India through community-driven efforts.
Nationwide Participation: Over 6000 Locations Join the Cause
The special edition of the cycling initiative saw simultaneous participation from educational institutions like CBSE, CISCE, Kendriya Vidyalayas, DAV Colleges, Navodaya Vidyalayas, and Bal Bharati Public Schools at over 6000 locations across the country.
Dr Mandaviya reiterated the government’s vision:
“Our objective is to ensure a fit, drug-free youth – the backbone of India’s development journey. Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji’s dream of a Viksit Bharat will only be possible when our youth are physically and mentally strong.”
Yoga, Zumba, and School Games Boost Engagement
The Varanasi event was not just about cycling. It also featured a wide range of fitness and fun activities including yoga, Zumba, and meditation sessions. Additionally, school games zones were set up with traditional board games like snake & ladder, carrom, chess, ludo, and even mini-golf, ensuring holistic engagement for children and families alike.
Top Leaders and Athletes Join Hands
The event witnessed a strong show of support from various dignitaries including:
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Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, Union MoS Youth Affairs & Sports
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Sh. Girish Chandra Yadav, UP Sports Minister
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Local MLAs: Ravindra Jaiswal, Awdesh Singh, Saurav Srivastava
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MLCs: Dharmendra Singh, Hansraj
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Sh. S. Rajalingam, Divisional Commissioner, Varanasi
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Sh. Atma Prakash, Regional Director, SAI Lucknow
In her address, Raksha Khadse praised the youth for showing up in large numbers and added,
“The message is clear — our youth do not want drugs; they want progress, fitness, and opportunity.”
Delhi and Other Cities Echo the Momentum
The Delhi edition of the campaign also saw over 1000 school students from more than 300 schools participate with equal zeal. Star cyclists like Esow Alben, Mayuri Lute, and Sushikala Agashe were present to motivate the young crowd.
Esow, 2022 Asian Cycling Championships bronze medalist, shared:
“Seeing Fit India Sundays on Cycle reach even my hometown in Andaman fills me with pride. Fitness is becoming a national lifestyle.”
Collaborations and Future Outlook
Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the campaign is supported by the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Raahgiri Foundation, My Bikes, MY Bharat, and several fitness groups. The initiative now runs in all state and UT capitals, alongside SAI centres, Khelo India Centres, and other training facilities.
With sustained efforts, the Fit India movement continues to promote physical wellness while acting as a powerful deterrent against drug addiction, aiming to shape a healthier, more empowered generation of Indians.
Conclusion: Pedalling Towards Progress
The success of the 32nd edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle underlines a growing national awareness around fitness and drug prevention. As thousands pedal together every Sunday, the movement evolves into more than a fitness campaign — it becomes a symbol of youth unity, health consciousness, and a collective journey towards a prosperous, addiction-free Viksit Bharat.
Source: PIB
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