New Delhi, September 7 (HS): Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya participated in the special edition of Fit India Sunday on Cycle, themed Proudly Swadeshi, to promote the use of indigenous products. The minister cycled along with Members of Parliament around India Gate and Kartavya Path in the capital.
The 39th edition of the campaign was organized in collaboration with Indian Railways at over 8,000 locations nationwide. In Delhi, Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik flagged off the event at 7 a.m. from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, with more than 1,500 cyclists and fitness enthusiasts joining the ride. A key highlight of this edition was the Proudly Swadeshi theme, where Indian sportswear and fitness brands showcased indigenous products at dedicated stalls for participants.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya said, “I am delighted to see increasing participation in the ‘Sunday on Cycle’ program. It has become a people’s movement, raising remarkable awareness about adopting an active lifestyle. Today, I rode alongside Members of Parliament under the theme ‘Proudly Swadeshi.’ On this occasion, I appeal to all citizens to use India-made products.”
He also pointed out the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) reduction on sports goods, stressing that rates had been cut from 12 percent to 5 percent, making equipment more affordable. “This move will encourage greater participation in sports and fitness activities while boosting demand and further strengthening India’s sporting ecosystem,” he said.
Olympic medalist Sakshi Malik, sharing her experience, remarked, “I am delighted to be part of the Fit India Sunday on Cycle initiative. Today, this government-led effort is being held at over 8,000 locations across the country. This was my first experience of cycling alongside thousands of citizens and Members of Parliament. I urge everyone to dedicate at least one hour daily to fitness and physical well-being.”
Prominent leaders who joined the event included Minister of State for Agriculture Bhagirath Choudhary, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, MPs Naveen Jindal, Purushottam Rupala, Prabhubhai Vasava, Hemang Joshi, Subhash Barala, Bhojraj Nag, among others.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
