Reinforcing the message that physical fitness is integral to national strength and social resilience, the 79th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle was organised in the national capital on Sunday with a special focus on the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ (NMBA). The initiative brought together more than 800 participants, highlighting the role of sport and community engagement in promoting a drug-free and healthy India.
Held at the Sports Authority of India campus at the iconic Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Swimming Complex, the event featured a 5-km cycling rally led under the Fit India Movement of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. Participants from different age groups cycled together, underscoring the government’s emphasis on fitness as a tool for nation-building and youth empowerment.
A key highlight of the programme was the collective ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ pledge, administered by the Department of Social Justice. Children, youth, senior citizens and fitness enthusiasts reaffirmed their commitment to combating substance abuse and promoting healthy lifestyles, aligning with the national campaign against drug addiction.
Addressing participants, Fit India Ambassador and fitness model Kiran Chhillar stressed that fitness should become a lifelong discipline rather than a periodic activity. She urged citizens to adopt healthy living as a way of life and carry the message of physical well-being into every household.
The event also showcased the growing integration of wellness initiatives with public outreach. A Yoga Zone, jointly organised by Yogasana Bharat and the Ministry of AYUSH, witnessed enthusiastic participation across generations, reflecting the government’s continued emphasis on holistic health and preventive wellness.
Beyond cycling, the venue hosted a range of physical and recreational activities, including yoga sessions, Zumba, badminton, tug-of-war, chess, carrom and interactive games, transforming the Sunday programme into a family-oriented fitness festival. The initiative highlighted the importance of encouraging active lifestyles among citizens of all age groups while strengthening community participation.
Organised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India, Yogasana Bharat, Raahgiri Foundation, MY Bharat, MY Bikes and other partner organisations, Fit India Sundays on Cycle is now conducted simultaneously across States and Union Territories through Sports Authority of India regional centres, National Centres of Excellence, Khelo India Centres and other sports institutions.
As India continues to promote physical fitness as a pillar of national development, initiatives such as Fit India Sundays on Cycle demonstrate how community participation, healthy lifestyles and youth engagement can contribute to building a stronger, healthier and more resilient nation.
