Nationwide Tiranga Rally Sees 15,000 Cyclists Join in Tribute to Armed Forces

“Fit India Sundays on Cycle”
“Fit India Sundays on Cycle”

JUNE 01: The 25th edition of the “Fit India Sundays on Cycle” initiative, celebrated as the Tiranga Cycling Rally, was held with great enthusiasm across India on June 1, 2025. Blending patriotism, fitness, and environmental awareness, the rally witnessed the participation of over 15,000 cyclists from more than 5,000 locations nationwide. The event paid tribute to India’s armed forces, especially in the wake of the successful Operation Sindoor.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, led a group of over 1,500 cyclists from Delhi’s Major Dhyanchand National Stadium. He was joined by Sports Secretary Sh. Hari Ranjan Rao, Olympic medalist Yogeshwar Dutt, wrestler Sarita Mor, cricketer Saba Karim, actress Sharvari, and the Indian cycling team.

A standout feature of this edition was the enthusiastic participation from Jammu and Kashmir, with cyclists from districts like Poonch, Kulgam, Budgam, and Baramulla joining in. The rides were organized by Khelo India Centres, State Centres of Excellence, and SAI Training Centres.

Dr. Mandaviya described the rally as a “salute to our brave jawans,” adding that fitness and patriotism go hand in hand. He also launched two major initiatives: the Fit India Newsletter and a Carbon Credit Tracker integrated into the Fit India mobile app, encouraging citizens to monitor their eco-contributions by cycling.

Actress Sharvari, known for films like Munjya and Maharaja, was honored as the Young Fit India Icon. She reflected on the nostalgia and pride the event evoked, saying, “This is more than a fitness rally—it’s a tribute to our soldiers.”

Olympic wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt called the campaign “a movement connecting national pride with national health,” highlighting its multi-generational appeal. Padma Shri archer Deepika Kumari, Paralympian Sumit Antil, gymnast Dipa Karmakar, and other decorated athletes participated from different SAI centres across the country.

State ministers Smt. Rekha Arya (Uttarakhand) and Sh. Girish Yadav (Uttar Pradesh) also participated from their respective regions. Former cricketer Saba Karim emphasized cycling as a green and inclusive solution for health and sustainability.

With support from partners like CISF, CultFit, Red FM, and the Cycling Federation of India, the Fit India movement has grown rapidly since its launch in December 2024. The 25th edition reinforced its role in uniting fitness with national spirit and environmental responsibility.