Panaji

Goa’s picturesque coastline will come alive with energy, patriotism and public participation on Sunday as the Fit India Sundays on Cycle initiative hosts its special Vijay Diwas edition in the state, honouring the sacrifices of India’s armed forces.

The cycling event will be organised along the scenic route from Miramar Beach Circle to Dona Paula Circle, with the ride scheduled to begin at 7 am. A flagship programme of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the initiative is being held in Goa in partnership with the Directorate of Sports, Goa, as per a release issued by the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

Ahead of the mega event, a joint press conference was held on Saturday, addressed by Mayank Srivastav, Deputy Director General of the Sports Authority of India, and Ajay Gaude, Secretary, Sports Authority of Goa.

Describing the event as a celebration of collective fitness, Srivastav said the Fit India Sundays on Cycle programme has evolved into a “fitness carnival,” offering activities such as cycling, yoga, zumba and rope skipping. He noted that the upcoming ride marks the 53rd edition of the initiative, which has seen participation from nearly 20 lakh people nationwide over the past year.

Srivastav explained that while the programme initially centred around Delhi, it has now expanded across states and Union Territories in response to growing public enthusiasm. Varanasi was the first city outside the capital to host a major edition, followed by Goa, which he described as an ideal venue due to its open roads, natural beauty and fresh coastal air.

Highlighting Goa’s involvement, Ajay Gaude said the state government is pleased to associate with an initiative focused on improving public health. He also announced the launch of a new cycling club under the Sports Authority of Goa to encourage regular participation by citizens.

The event will be attended by Goa Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar and Santosh Gunwantrao Sukhadeve, IAS, Secretary (Sports), Goa. Several eminent sportspersons will also join, including Olympian and world champion boxer Jaismine Lamboria, Olympian Subedar Manish Kaushik, Arjuna Awardee footballer Bruno Coutinho, and Padma Shri and Arjuna Award recipient Brahmanand Sankhwalkar.

Adding to the inspiration, Maymol Rocky, India’s first woman head coach of the senior women’s national football team, will also participate. Popular Telugu comedian Md Ali and actor Manchu Manoj Kumar are expected to be present to encourage public engagement.

The Vijay Diwas spirit will be reinforced through participation by senior officials and units of the Army, Navy and NCC, highlighting the link between fitness, discipline and national service. Fit India Champions and Ambassadors from Goa will also take part.

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Launched in December 2024 by Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Fit India Sundays on Cycle has grown into a nationwide movement promoting healthy living, environmental awareness and active lifestyles. With the Arabian Sea as its backdrop, the Goa edition aims to combine fitness with remembrance, urging citizens to cycle in honour of health, unity and the nation’s defenders.