Shillong, May 31: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya on Sunday participated in the 76th edition of the nationwide Sundays on Cycle campaign in Shillong under the Fit India Movement, urging citizens to embrace cycling as a means to improve fitness, conserve fuel and promote sustainable living. The cycling event witnessed enthusiastic participation from youth, athletes, fitness enthusiasts and members of the public. Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse, Meghalaya Sports Minister Wailadmiki Shylla and several cycling enthusiasts also joined the programme.
Addressing participants, Dr. Mandaviya said cycling is one of the best forms of exercise and offers multiple benefits beyond personal health, including reducing pollution, conserving fuel and easing traffic congestion. He described cycling as both a fitness activity and a practical solution to several modern-day challenges. Highlighting the success of the campaign, the Union Minister said Sundays on Cycle has grown into a nationwide movement under the Fit India initiative, with lakhs of people taking part every Sunday. He informed that cycling events were organised at more than 6,000 locations across the country on Sunday.
Dr. Mandaviya also underlined the sporting potential of cycling and encouraged the youth of Meghalaya to consider it not only as a fitness activity but also as a competitive sport and a way of life. Referring to the growing cycling culture in the North East, he said the region holds immense potential for producing talented cyclists. With Meghalaya preparing to host the National Games in 2027, the Union Minister called upon citizens to strengthen the culture of cycling across the state. He urged people to participate in cycling activities every Sunday and work towards making cycling an integral part of community life in both rural and urban areas.
Emphasising the role of fitness in nation-building, Dr. Mandaviya said a developed India can only be built by healthy and fit citizens. He encouraged young people to actively participate in the Fit India Movement and contribute towards the vision of a Viksit Bharat. The Minister also stressed the importance of cycling in reducing dependence on fuel and promoting environmentally sustainable lifestyles. Referring to the situation in West Asia, he noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appealed to citizens to reduce fuel consumption wherever possible. He said cycling offers a simple and effective way to support that objective while improving public health and protecting the environment.
Speaking on the occasion, Raksha Khadse said the Shillong event witnessed strong 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 safeguarding the environment. Khadse urged people from all walks of life to make cycling a regular habit and actively support the objectives of the Fit India Movement.
The event highlighted the growing popularity of cycling as a movement for fitness, environmental conservation and sustainable living, while reinforcing the message of a healthier and fitter India.
