Mansukh Mandaviya Leads Fit India Cycling Drive, Urges Youth to Stay Drug-Free for a Healthier Nation

Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Mansukh Mandaviya led a powerful message of fitness and anti-drug awareness during the 32nd edition of the ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ event, held at Banaras Hindu University (BHU). Joined by a crowd of over 3,000 cyclists, the event promoted a fit and drug-free India, especially targeting youth across the nation.

Cycling for a Cause: Fitness and Drug-Free India

Minister Mandaviya, speaking at the event, emphasized the role of physical well-being in shaping a strong, progressive nation.

“A healthy body leads to a healthy mind, and only a healthy mind can push the nation toward Viksit Bharat (Developed India),” he said.

He further stated that ‘Sundays on Cycle’ has now evolved into a jan andolan (mass movement), with educational institutions across over 6,000 locations participating in the ‘Nasha-Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ campaign.

Broad Participation and Leadership

The event witnessed participation from institutions like CBSE, CISCE, Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, DAV institutions, and Bal Bharati Public Schools. Alongside Mandaviya, other dignitaries included:

• Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports Smt. Raksha Nikhil Khadse
• Uttar Pradesh Sports Minister Girish Chandra Yadav
• MLAs and MLCs from Varanasi
• Senior officials from SAI and the BHU administration

Iconic Cycling Route and Activities

The cycle rally passed through iconic spots inside BHU such as Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Malviya Bhawan, Birla Hostel, IIT Chauraha, and the Vishwanath Temple, culminating at the Amphitheatre Ground.

The event also featured yoga, meditation, Zumba, and school sports zones with interactive games like carrom, mini golf, chess, and rope skipping—offering a fun and holistic fitness experience for all age groups.

Voices of Encouragement

Speaking to the media, Raksha Khadse noted the youth’s growing awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, stating,

“We’ve made a strong start, and the message is clear—only a healthy youth can lead to a prosperous nation.”

Top Indian cyclists like Esow Alben, Mayuri Lute, and Sushikala Agashe motivated young riders at the Delhi edition, which saw over 1,000 school students from across 300+ schools in NCR joining the movement.

Esow, a 2022 Asian Cycling Championships bronze medalist, shared his pride:

“Seeing Fit India Sundays on Cycle active even in my hometown in Andaman fills me with hope. The fitness movement is truly reaching every corner of the country.”

Nationwide Collaboration

The initiative is organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in partnership with the Cycling Federation of India, Raahgiri Foundation, MY Bharat, My Bikes, and Rope Skipping India. Simultaneous cycling drives are being held in all State and UT capitals, SAI centres, Khelo India centres, and training institutes.

The event reaffirms the government’s mission to create a fit, focused, and drug-free generation ready to drive India’s progress.

Get Latest News Live on MTIMES along with Breaking News and Top Headlines, Political News and around The World.

You May Like

Trending Searches Today |

PM Modi Sets $20 Billion Trade Target with Brazil by 2030

“India Struck Pakistan Hard and Smart”: Tharoor Praises Operation Sindoor in the US

Honeymoon Turns Tragic: Wife Sonam Arrested for Plotting Husband Murder, Meghalaya

Bridge Collapse in Vadodara: 10 Dead, Several Injured, Rescue Operations Underway

Shubhanshu Shukla to PM Modi from Space: “16 Sunrises, 16 Sunsets – Earth Has No Borders”

NEET-PG 2025 to Be Held on August 3: Supreme Court Allows NBE Extension, Denies Further Delay