Shillong, May 31: Union Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya participated in the 76th edition of the nationwide Sundays on Cycle campaign under the Fit India Movement in Shillong. The event was participated by youth, athletes, fitness enthusiasts and members of the public, promoting the message of fitness, sustainability and healthy living through cycling.
Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse, Meghalaya Sports Minister, Wailadmiki Shylla, athletes and cycling enthusiasts also joined the event.
Addressing the gathering, Mandaviya expressed happiness that the youth of Meghalaya are spreading the message of fitness through cycling. He said that cycling is one of the best forms of exercise and serves multiple public benefits, including reducing pollution, conserving fuel and helping ease traffic congestion. He noted that cycling is not only a fitness activity but also a practical solution to several contemporary challenges, making it an ideal choice for a healthier and more sustainable future.
The union minister noted that Sundays on Cycle has evolved into a nationwide movement under the Fit India initiative, with lakhs of people participating across the country every Sunday. He informed the gathering that cycling events were organised at more than 6,000 locations across India on Sunday, reflecting the growing popularity of the campaign.
Highlighting the sporting potential of cycling, Mandaviya said that while cycling is an effective fitness activity, it is also a competitive sport with significant opportunities for young athletes. Referring to the growing cycling culture in the North East, he encouraged the youth of Meghalaya to view cycling not only as a means of fitness but also as a sport and a way of life.
With Meghalaya set to host the National Games in 2027, the Union Minister called upon citizens to strengthen the culture of cycling in the state. He urged people to participate in cycling activities every Sunday and work towards making cycling an integral part of community life across districts, blocks and urban centres. He said that Meghalaya should leverage the upcoming National Games to promote cycling as a sport while simultaneously encouraging it as a mass fitness movement.
Emphasising the importance of fitness in nation-building, Mandaviya said that a developed India can only be built by healthy and fit citizens. He noted that fit individuals contribute to healthier communities, and healthy communities form the foundation of a prosperous and developed nation. He urged young people to join the Fit India Movement and become active partners in realising the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
The Union Minister also highlighted the role of cycling in promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing dependence on fuel. Referring to the current situation in West Asia, he noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to reduce fuel consumption wherever possible. Mandaviya said that cycling offers a practical way to support this national effort while simultaneously promoting fitness, reducing pollution and easing traffic congestion. Encouraging citizens to use bicycles for short-distance travel and daily commuting, he said that cycling not only benefits individual health but also contributes to environmental protection and energy conservation.
Speaking on the occasion, Khadse said that the Sundays on Cycle campaign in Shillong witnessed enthusiastic participation from public representatives, athletes and cycling enthusiasts. She observed that cycling is steadily gaining popularity in Shillong and described it as an effective means of promoting fitness while protecting the environment.
Khadse encouraged citizens to actively participate in the Sundays on Cycle movement and adopt cycling as part of their daily routine. She urged people from all walks of life to make cycling a regular habit and support the objectives of the Fit India Movement.
