New Delhi,  July 5, 2026

The nationwide Fit India Sundays on Cycle campaign continued to strengthen its message of healthy living as Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led its 80th edition from Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on July 5. Organised to encourage active lifestyles and greater public participation in fitness, the latest edition also commemorated the birth centenary of spiritual leader Sri Sathya Sai, reinforcing the importance of physical well-being in building a healthier nation.

Held in collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisations, the event attracted more than 9,000 participants in the national capital, who joined a community cycling ride, run, Zumba and yoga sessions. Simultaneously, cycling events were organised across the country in partnership with the Art of Living Foundation, Heartfulness and the Isha Foundation. A dedicated games zone featuring life-sized chess, ludo, carrom, table tennis, futsal and badminton was also set up to encourage children to actively participate in the celebrations.

Addressing the gathering, Mandaviya stressed that a healthy population is vital for India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047. “For any country to be counted as a developed nation, the health of its citizens is essential. I urge all Indians to set aside at least one hour from their mobile screens and dedicate that time to their personal health by engaging in sports activities,” the Union Minister said. Highlighting concerns over lifestyle-related health issues, he noted that one out of every four people in India is overweight. The programme began with Vedic invocations, ceremonial lamp lighting by dignitaries and a Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge before the community fitness ride. Speaking on the occasion, Nimish Gulabrai Pandya said, “The Fit India movement aims to make every Indian fit and healthy, while the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organisation believes in the philosophy of ‘Love All, Serve All’. This collaboration is an excellent amalgamation of both ideals.” Actor Naseer Abdullah also praised the initiative and encouraged greater public participation in fitness activities.

Launched in December 2024, the Fit India Sundays on Cycle campaign has evolved into a nationwide movement promoting the message of “Fitness Ki Dose, Aadha Ghanta Roz.” According to the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the initiative has already engaged more than 30 lakh participants across thousands of locations nationwide. Conducted in collaboration with the Cycling Federation of India, Yogasana Bharat, the Raahgiri Foundation and MY Bharat, the campaign continues to inspire people of all age groups to make physical activity a regular part of their daily lives, strengthening the country's vision of a healthier future