Team Herald
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PANJIM: The Konkan coast of Goa became host to the 53rd mega edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle with armed forces as special partners, dedicated to Vijay Diwas.
This edition took the nationwide fitness movement beyond the national capital, marking a vibrant new chapter in the campaign’s expansion to different parts of the country.
The event reflected the growing momentum of the Fit India Movement and its mission to make fitness a people’s movement across India. The cycling rally was flagged off amidst great enthusiasm, covering the route from Miramar Beach Circle to Dona Paula and back, offering participants a unique blend of fitness, community bonding, and Goa’s natural beauty. The morning witnessed a lively atmosphere with yoga sessions, energetic Zumba routines, live Goan music and mass participation, reinforcing the idea that fitness can be joyful, inclusive and sustainable.
The event was graced by Sports Minister Ramesh Tawadkar along with senior officials including Santosh Gunwantrao Sukhadeve, IAS, Secretary (Sports), Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs Director Dr Ajay Gaude, eminent actors, athletes, defence personnel, NCC cadets and Fit India ambassadors also joined the movement, lending it national prominence.
Addressing the gathering, Tawadkar reflected on his own journey spanning over two decades as a physical education teacher, a cycling enthusiast, and now as the Sports Minister of Goa.
Emphasising the need to strengthen sports culture, Tawadkar highlighted how cycling has become an integral part of daily life in several European countries, with thousands commuting on bicycles every day.
“Goa and India must cultivate a similar culture, adding that when 30 crore Indians come together, a true behavioural shift towards fitness is possible. Echoing the vision of the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the leadership of the Hon’ble Union Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports, we must organise Sundays on Cycle regularly across Goa, making it a weekly habit for citizens,” he added.
The initiative is conducted with Yogasana Bharat and My Bharat as regular partners, further strengthening the collective effort to promote fitness and well-being across the nation.
