New Delhi, June 2 : The 25th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, celebrated as Tiranga Cycling Rally, was successfully held across the nation on Sunday morning. Highlighting a powerful blend of patriotism, fitness and environmental awareness, more than 15,000 cyclists from over 5000 locations joined in for a nationwide tribute to India’s armed forces.

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya led over 1500 cyclists at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium here, alongside Secretary (Sports) Ranjan Rao, sports icons - Olympic medallist Yogeshwar Dutt, cricketer Saba Karim, wrestler Sarita Mor, Bollywood actress Sharvari and the Indian cycling team.

One of the major highlights of the Sunday morning remained a full-fledged participation of cyclists from several regions of Jammu and Kashmir, including Jammu, Poonch, Kishtwar, Kulgam, Bandipora, Shopian, Baramulla, Budgam, Samba and more. These cycling drives were conducted by several Khelo India Centres (KICs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs) and SAI Training Centres (STCs).

Paying tribute to the armed forces, especially in light of the recent successful Operation Sindoor, Mandaviya emphasised the deeper significance of this edition. “This Tiranga Rally is a salute to our jawans and their sacrifice. Fitness and patriotism go hand in hand,” he said.

The landmark edition saw the launch of two key initiatives – the Fit India Newsletter and the Carbon Credit Feature on the Fit India mobile app, where cyclists can now track the carbon credits they save by cycling regularly. “One download of the app will make you a part of the Fit India movement. Your speed - from 7 to 34 kmph - and your distance will be recorded, and your carbon credits will be added," Mandaviya added.

The newly launched Fit India Newsletter will also serve as a monthly digest, featuring inspiring news stories as well as updates and training tips from various fitness influencers.

Actress Sharvari, who has been hailed as an upcoming superstar and is credited for films like Munjiya and Maharaja, was awarded the title of ‘Young Fit India Icon’ by Mandaviya at the event. “This movement is huge and it’s an honour to be a Fit India Icon. Cycling reminds me of school summer holidays - we all used to hire cycles and set out,” she said.

“This cycle rally is even more significant for me because this is for our brave soldiers. We can sleep peacefully in our homes because of them and it is my great honour to pay tribute to their bravery through this Tiranga Rally.”