JUNE 03: Union Minister for Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurated Urban Adda 2025 at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi today. The three-day conclave, running from June 3 to 5, brings together youth, policymakers, experts, and artists to reimagine urban spaces for a sustainable, inclusive future.
Coinciding with World Bicycle Day, the event champions cycling and active mobility as central to urban transformation. Reflecting on his own journey, Dr. Mandaviya recalled cycling to Parliament as an MP, earning the moniker “cycle-wala MP.” He urged citizens to embrace cycling as a lifestyle choice—not just for health, but as a social equalizer and climate-friendly mode of transport.
“The ‘Sundays on Cycle’ initiative has evolved into a national movement promoting Fit India,” he said. “Cycling is not only the best form of exercise, it is also the solution to pollution. If we want a Viksit Bharat by 2047, we must prioritize cleaner, safer cities—and it starts with how we move.”
During the event, the Minister launched two landmark books authored by Dr. Bhairavi Joshi and Ar. Kush Parikh:
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Cycling, Children & Cities
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Road to Cycle2School
The publications advocate rethinking urban planning to prioritize children’s mobility and active transport. Dr. Mandaviya stressed the importance of designing safer streets and healthier spaces for youth, stating, “Protecting our children’s daily journey is key to building a truly developed India.”
Urban Adda 2025 features a range of events including:
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Youth Adda, giving young leaders a platform to shape urban policy
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Cyclothon, involving over 100 cyclists to promote active commuting
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Urban Adda Film Festival (UAFF-25) on June 4, showcasing short films on climate resilience
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Public Art Installations by artist Sagar Singh that combine art, movement, and sustainability
Dignitaries present included Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, and ministers from Haryana and Rajasthan. The conclave is organized by Raahgiri Foundation, in partnership with ICCT, GuruJal, and supported by Nagarro.
Urban Adda 2025 sends a strong message: cleaner cities, healthier lives, and youth-driven innovation are critical to India’s sustainable urban future.
