On June 1, the 25th edition of Fit India Sundays, known as the Tiranga Cycling Rally, took place successfully in various regions across the nation.

Emphasizing a unique combination of patriotism, fitness, and environmental consciousness, over 15,000 cyclists from more than 5,000 locations participated in this nationwide homage to India's armed forces, as reported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) Media.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, led a group of over 1,500 cyclists at the Major Dhyanchand National Stadium, joined by Secretary (Sports) Hari Ranjan Rao, Olympic medalist Yogeshwar Dutt, cricketer Saba Karim, wrestler Sarita Mor, actress Sharvari, and the Indian cycling team.

A significant aspect of the event was the enthusiastic involvement of cyclists from various regions in Jammu and Kashmir, including Jammu, Poonch, Kishtwar, Kulgam, Bandipora, Shopian, Baramulla, Budgam, and Samba. These cycling events were organized by multiple Khelo India Centres (KICs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs), and SAI Training Centres (STCs).

In a tribute to the armed forces, particularly following the recent Operation Sindoor, Dr. Mandaviya highlighted the deeper meaning of this rally. He stated, “This Tiranga Rally is a salute to our soldiers and their sacrifices. Fitness and patriotism are intertwined.”

This landmark edition also introduced two significant initiatives: the 'Fit India Newsletter' and the 'Carbon Credit Feature' on the 'Fit India' mobile app, allowing cyclists to monitor the carbon credits they save through regular cycling. “Downloading the app makes you part of the Fit India movement,” Dr. Mandaviya noted. “Your speed—ranging from 7 to 34 km/h—and distance will be recorded, contributing to your carbon credits.”

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

Actress Sharvari, recognized for her roles in films like Munjiya and Maharaja, was honored with the title of 'Young Fit India Icon' by Dr. Mandaviya during the event.

“This movement is monumental, and I am honored to be a Fit India Icon. Cycling brings back memories of summer holidays when we would rent bikes and ride out. This rally holds even greater significance for me as it pays tribute to our brave soldiers. We can rest peacefully at home because of their sacrifices, and it is a privilege to honor their bravery through this Tiranga Rally,” she expressed.

The Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative began in December 2024 with around 150 cyclists, and participation has surged dramatically over the past six months. This growth is attributed to collaborations with partners such as the CISF, Indian Medical Association, journalist associations, educators, corporates, and professionals from various fields. Special partners for this edition included the Cycling Federation of India, Yogasana Bharat, Association of Indian Universities, BYCS India, CultFit, and Red FM.

Olympian and wrestling champion Yogeshwar Dutt described the initiative as “a movement that connects national health with national pride.” He remarked, “If we are healthy, the nation will be healthy. Participation spans all ages, from young children to senior citizens. That’s the strength of this campaign.”

Numerous athletes from across India participated in this landmark 25th edition of Sundays on Cycle. Olympian and Arjuna Awardee Dipa Karmakar kicked off the rally at the SAI Training Centre (STC) in Agartala, while in SAI Sonepat, Deepika Kumari (Padma Shri Awardee Archer), Purnima Mahato (Padma Shri Archery Coach), Arjuna Awardees Sumit Antil, Paralympics Double Gold Medallist, and Asian Games Gold medallists Jyothi Surekha, Ojas Deotale, Aditi Gopichand Swami, along with Paralympians Sundar Gurjar and Pushpender, also took part. Renowned Indian hockey player SK Uthappa was present at SAI Bengaluru. Additionally, there was significant representation from the All India Police force at SAI Rohtak.

Rekha Arya, the Sports Minister of Uttarakhand, and Girish Yadav, the Sports Minister of Uttar Pradesh, participated in respective events in Uttarakhand and Varanasi. Former cricketer and sports administrator Saba Karim commended the initiative's inclusivity, stating, “This is a brilliant step by SAI. Cycling promotes fitness and keeps our environment green. I used to cycle to school myself. It’s maintenance-free and pollution-free—a perfect tool for health and the environment.”

Wrestler Sarita Mor passionately shared, “I feel privileged to be part of this initiative started by PM Narendra Modi. Cycling is already part of my training routine. Today, with this rally, we also honor our brave soldiers of Operation Sindoor. It is because of them that we remain safe today.”