Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya encouraged young people across India to incorporate cycling into their daily routines on World Bicycle Day, June 3. In a video released by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS), Mandaviya described cycling as more than just exercise, calling it a healthy, affordable, and sustainable habit beneficial to both physical and mental health while aiding environmental protection.
"Warm wishes to you all on World Bicycle Day. Today, I wish to make a special appeal to the youth of our nation: make cycling an integral part of your lives. Cycling is not merely a form of exercise or a fleeting hobby; it is the hallmark of a healthy and empowered lifestyle. It keeps us fit, energises the body, and enhances our mental well-being. Cycling should become a daily habit for us, as it serves as the most affordable, delightful, and sustainable means of safeguarding both our health and the environment," he said.
Mandaviya highlighted that increased bicycle use could reduce pollution and conserve petrol and diesel, bringing benefits to the nation. He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for citizens to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles, emphasising cycling as an effective and sustainable alternative.
"The more we use bicycles, the lower the levels of pollution will be, and the nation will also benefit through the conservation of petrol and diesel. In these times of global challenges, our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi Ji, has also urged the citizens to reduce their dependence on petrol and diesel-powered vehicles. In this context, cycling emerges as an effective and positive solution," Mandaviya stated.
He noted that initiatives like 'Sundays on Cycle' have revitalised PM Modi's 'Fit India Movement,' with widespread youth participation transforming it into a mass movement. Mandaviya expressed gratitude for the enthusiasm and support shown by citizens.
"Campaigns such as 'Sundays on Cycle' have given fresh momentum to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji's 'Fit India Movement.' Millions of young people across the country are participating enthusiastically, transforming this initiative into a mass movement. I express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for the affection, support, and energy you are infusing into this campaign," he said.
Mandaviya announced that the upcoming 'Sundays on Cycle' event, scheduled for Sunday, will be dedicated to World Bicycle Day.
"The upcoming 'Sundays on Cycle' event, to be organised across the nation this coming Sunday, will be dedicated to World Bicycle Day. I urge all the youth of the country to participate in this with great enthusiasm, register themselves on the 'Fit India App,' and encourage their friends and family members to join in as well," he added.
Indian Council of Medical Research Deputy Director General Jagdish Rajesh also spoke on World Bicycle Day, urging the public to include cycling in daily routines for fitness and environmental benefits, while noting its role in reducing pollution.
"I am happy to be here with all my friends who have assembled here right in the morning. We are here for World Bicycle Day. I would urge people to use bicycles in their daily routines. This not only keeps you fit, but a bicycle is also eco-friendly. So, we are contributing to the country by reducing the pollution level," he told ANI.
Dalip Singh Sabharwa, BYCS India Foundation Bicycle Mayor of Delhi, stated that promoting the 'cycle to work' movement is vital given concerns about pollution, health issues, and rising fuel prices. He described the bicycle as a simple solution and urged young people to normalise cycling as a modern lifestyle choice.
"Today, our purpose is to promote 'cycle to work'. We are facing so many problems these days related to pollution, health, and the fuel price rise. However, I believe that the solution to all these problems is the bicycle. I want to appeal to the youth to make cycling a new fashion and new normal," he told ANI.
World Bicycle Day was celebrated with enthusiasm across India on June 3 through various cyclothons, awareness drives, and cycling events held in places including Delhi, Assam, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh. Participants of all ages took part to underline the importance of cycling as a healthy and eco-friendly mode of transport.