The National Cadet Corps (NCC) on Saturday organised Cyclothon 2026 in the national capital to commemorate 79 years of India’s Independence, promoting fitness, environmental sustainability, and responsible citizenship among the youth.
The event was flagged off by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya in the presence of Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Olympic medallist boxer M.C. Mary Kom, tennis legend Leander Paes, and Director General NCC Lieutenant General Virendra Vats.
Leading the event, Lt Gen Virendra Vats rode alongside 79 NCC cadets in a symbolic 79-kilometre cycling expedition, representing the 79th year of India’s Independence. The rally began and concluded at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, traversing several prominent landmarks across New Delhi.
Held under the theme “Clean India, Green India, Fit India,” the cyclothon highlighted the NCC’s commitment to key national initiatives, including TB Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Har Ghar Tiranga. The programme encouraged participants and the public to adopt cycling as an environmentally friendly and sustainable mode of transport while promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing carbon emissions.
Beyond its sporting significance, the event served as a platform to raise awareness about physical fitness, environmental conservation, road safety, and civic responsibility. NCC officials said the initiative was aimed at inspiring young people to become agents of positive social change by embracing the organisation’s core values of discipline, teamwork, resilience, patriotism, and community service.
The Cyclothon 2026 forms part of the NCC’s nationwide efforts to engage youth in nation-building while supporting government campaigns focused on public health, environmental protection, and sustainable development.
