Bhubaneswar, Odisha : As part of the three-day National Sports Day celebrations across India, the Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India and the Odisha Cycling Association, organised the “Sundays on Cycle” event at Kalinga Stadium on Sunday.
The initiative witnessed hundreds of enthusiastic participants, including students, fitness enthusiasts, and citizens from various walks of life, who came together to promote the message of fitness, healthy living, and social unity. The cycling rally also echoed the vision of the Fit India Movement, inspiring people to integrate physical activity into their daily lives.
Sports and Youth Services Minister Shri Suryabanshi Suraj flagged off the cycle rally as the Chief Guest. In his address, he said, “National Sports Day is not only a tribute to our sporting icons but also a reminder for every citizen to embrace fitness and well-being. Through today’s cycle rally, we are encouraging everyone to remain active and healthy. Similar rallies have been organised across districts of Odisha, receiving tremendous public response. To build a fit and healthy Odisha, activities like yoga, exercise, and cycling should become part of our daily routine.”
Prominent dignitaries present included Smt. Minati Mahapatra, President of Odisha Cycling Association; Shri Deepankar Mahapatra, CEO, Hockey Promotion Council Odisha; Shri Ashok Kumar Panda, Additional Secretary, Sports and Youth Services Department; and Shri Bijay Kumar Swain, Additional Secretary, Sports and Youth Services Department.
The event reflected Odisha’s growing commitment to building a culture of sports and fitness while encouraging citizens to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly practices like cycling. With the success of this initiative, the Sports and Youth Services Department reiterated its aim to integrate fitness into everyday lifestyles, making Odisha a role model for sports and wellness promotion across the country.
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