New Delhi: New Delhi witnessed a resounding celebration of health, unity, and national pride on Sunday as Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, cycled alongside Members of Parliament at the 39th edition of ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’, held around India Gate and Kartavya Path. The event featured the special theme ‘Garv Se Swadeshi’, promoting Indian-made products and the Government’s push towards self-reliance and a fit nation.
Over 8000 Locations Join National Fitness Movement
Marking exceptional scale and influence, this week’s ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ rolled out at over 8000 locations nationwide in partnership with Indian Railways. In New Delhi, Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik flagged off the event at 7 AM from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, with more than 1,500 cyclists and fitness enthusiasts in attendance. Notably, over 250 Indian Railways employees took part, paying tribute to the country’s vast railway network.
Leaders and Olympians Advocate ‘Garv Se Swadeshi’
The ride was joined by several MPs including Bhagirath Chowdhury, Sanjay Seth, Navin Jindal, Purushottam Rupala, Prabhubhai Vasava, Hemang Joshi, Subhash Barala, Bhojraj Nag, and Ramesh Bidhuri. Indian sportswear and fitness brands set up swadeshi-themed stalls for participants, reinforcing the event’s commitment to local products and strengthening the #GarvSeSwadeshi movement. Union Minister Dr. Mandaviya applauded the mass participation, urging citizens nationwide to actively choose Made in Bharat products in their daily lives.
GST Reform Makes Sports Goods More Affordable
A key highlight was the recent reduction in GST on most sports goods from 12% to 5%. Dr. Mandaviya expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the reform, calling it a game-changer that will make sports equipment more affordable, encourage nationwide participation in fitness activities, and boost domestic manufacturing of sporting goods. Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse, pledged support for #GarvSeSwadeshi, reaffirming the government’s commitment to a more self-reliant and fitter India.
Olympians Inspire Public to Adopt Active Lifestyles
Olympic medallist Sakshi Malik shared her delight in joining the movement, emphasizing its role in promoting fitness across the country and supporting athletes. She encouraged everyone to dedicate one hour daily to physical health, highlighting the Government’s ongoing efforts through Fit India and similar wellness initiatives.
Wide Collaboration for Nationwide Impact
The campaign is organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), with support from the Cycling Federation of India, Yogasana Bharat, and MY Bharat. Simultaneous events took place in state capitals, SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), SAI Training Centres (STCs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs), and Khelo India Centres (KICs) for participants of all ages.
Conclusion
The 39th Fit India Sundays on Cycle has signified the power of active living, unity, and ‘Swadeshi’ pride. The GST reduction on sports goods reinforces the government’s focus on affordability and self-reliance, energizing both the public and the industry towards a healthier, fitter, and more self-reliant Bharat.
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Source: PIB
