The 83rd edition of Fit India Movement’s ‘Sundays on Cycle’ was dedicated to Kargil Vijay Diwas. Armed forces personnel, students and civilians cycled across the country to pay tribute to the 1999 war heroes and spread the message of fitness.
New Delhi [भारत]July 26 (ANI): The 83rd edition of ‘Sundays on Cycle’ (SoC), the flagship initiative of the Fit India Movement, was held across the country. This time its special theme was dedicated to Kargil Vijay Diwas, remembering the courage, sacrifice and valor of the Indian Armed Forces during the Kargil War of 1999. According to a press release, this nationwide cycling event was enthusiastically participated by citizens, youth, students, fitness enthusiasts and serving and retired personnel of the armed forces. Everyone together honored those brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the service of the nation.
Fit India celebrated this important day in the country’s history in every corner of the country. Apart from big cities, the event was organized through Sports Authority of India training centers from Leh to Kanyakumari, where young athletes cycled in memory of our war heroes.
Armed forces paid tribute in New Delhi
In New Delhi, the event marked a touching tribute to the heroes of the Kargil War, with officers and personnel of the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force coming together as a symbol of unity and remembrance. The participants cycled together to pay tribute to the fallen heroes whose sacrifices inspire generations of Indians.
Importance of youth participation and fitness
Speaking at the event, Major Shubhanshu Bhardwaj said, “It is heartening to see that so many youth have come together to remember our war heroes. This initiative of the Fit India Movement to bring everyone together is commendable. I am especially glad that the youth are here on Sunday morning to spend some time cycling and doing fitness activities. If we have to move forward as a nation, it is important for each of us to be healthy and hence ‘Sunday On Participating in programs like ‘Cycle’ is a starting point.”
Maitreyi College and Amitabh Kant boosted enthusiasm
Adding to the significance of the occasion, students and faculty members of Maitreyi College, Delhi University also attended the event as part of its ongoing Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Their presence reflected the strong connection between youth engagement, nation-building and the values of fitness and perseverance. Former CEO of NITI Aayog Amitabh Kant was present as the chief guest in this program. Addressing the participants, he highlighted the importance of fitness, discipline and service to the nation, and also lauded the efforts of the Fit India Movement to promote healthy lifestyle and community engagement through initiatives like ‘Sundays on Cycle’.
Addressing the gathering he said, “Maitreyi College has emerged as one of the finest colleges of Delhi University due to its focus on sports and extra-curricular activities. And on its Diamond Jubilee, it has taken this interest in sports and fitness to a new level by collaborating with the Fit India Movement. I congratulate the college and this movement for making a positive impact on young lives.”
Community engagement with fitness
The Fit India Movement’s ‘Sundays on Cycle’ initiative has emerged as one of the most popular community fitness programs in the country, encouraging people from all walks of life to make cycling and physical activity a part of their daily routine. Since its inception, the initiative has brought together thousands of participants across cities and towns, promoting a culture of health, wellness and environmental consciousness. Members of SHOR Foundation also participated in this edition of Fit India ‘Sundays on Cycle’. As a special initiative, Fit India has started registration of volunteers to introduce youth to high-level fitness programs and sports management. Their efforts and learning will be acknowledged through Fit India certificates. Many students of Maitreyi College registered under Fit India Club to volunteer through Fit India’s web portal.
Inspiration for a strong and fit India
Rohit Dwivedi, a young IT executive who regularly attends Fit India ‘Sundays on Cycle’ events in Delhi, said this week’s event made him emotional, making him feel proud to be an Indian. “Seeing so many Army personnel cycling with me and hearing the stories of our fallen heroes from the officers present here today, gave me a great sense of responsibility as a young Indian.”
Indeed, the 83rd edition stood out as a powerful reminder of the courage of India’s armed forces and the enduring legacy of the Kargil heroes, while inspiring citizens to adopt healthier and more active lifestyles in the spirit of a stronger and fitter India. The Fit India Movement launched by the Government of India aims to encourage citizens to integrate physical activity and fitness into their everyday lives. Conceptualized by Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Fit India ‘Sundays on Cycle’ is organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in collaboration with Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Rahgiri Foundation and MY Bharat. This cycling campaign is conducted simultaneously across all States and Union Territories including SAI Regional Centres, National Centers of Excellence (NCOEs), SAI Training Centers (STCs), Khelo India State Centers of Excellence (KISCEs) and Khelo India Centers (KICs). (ANI)
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