SURAT, September 06 (H.S.): The 89th edition of Fit India Sunday on Cycles was organised as the flagship event in Surat, Gujarat, on Sunday with the theme ‘Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat’ (Drug-Free Youth for a Developed India), with the objective of promoting a healthy, active and drug-free lifestyle across the country. The event witnessed participation from sportspersons, fitness enthusiasts, students, young people and citizens. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya and Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi were also present.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said that the ‘Sunday on Cycles’ campaign has gained widespread momentum across the country as a result of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Fit India’ movement. He emphasised that a healthy population is essential for building a developed nation and that cycling has an important role to play in creating a healthier society.

He highlighted the multiple benefits of cycling, saying that it serves as an effective form of exercise, strengthens the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ (Drug-Free India) campaign, helps reduce pollution and contributes to environmental conservation by lowering fuel consumption.

Mandaviya appealed to people not to restrict cycling to Sundays but to make it a part of their daily lives. He said that particularly using bicycles for commuting to workplaces located nearby would further strengthen the resolve of ‘Fit India’.

Through the programme, young people were particularly encouraged to stay away from drugs and contribute to the creation of a ‘Drug-Free India’. The cycling event in Surat began in the morning from the statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at Mangadh Chowk. Participants took part in yoga, Zumba and various other fitness activities. This was followed by a cycling ride of approximately six kilometres to Sarathana Zoo.

In the national capital, New Delhi, the 89th Fit India Sunday on Cycles event was organised at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. The programme honoured the invaluable contribution of teachers and coaches who play a vital role in guiding the lives and careers of young people. Students, youth and fitness enthusiasts participated in the event held in New Delhi.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar