New Delhi, June 3 (IANS) Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Wednesday urged young people to make cycling a part of their daily lives, saying the habit promotes health, fitness and environmental sustainability, as World Bicycle Day was marked with cyclothons and awareness events across the country.

In a post on X, Mandaviya made a special appeal to the youth, encouraging them to adopt cycling beyond a one-day celebration.

In a video message, he said, “Cycling is not just an exercise for a day or a hobby; it reflects a healthy lifestyle. It helps keep us healthy and ensures both our mental and physical well-being. Cycling is also a sustainable option that supports environmental conservation. By adopting cycling as a habit, we can contribute to fuel conservation, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to save fuel.”

In Gujarat’s Rajkot, the Rajkot Cycle Club (RCC) organised a cycling event to promote fitness, healthy living and environmental awareness.

One participant shared how cycling helped him overcome personal challenges. “I have been cycling for the past seven years. I started cycling during a difficult period when I was struggling with depression after my father’s passing. I was deeply affected by the trauma, but then I met a group of cycling friends…” he said.

Another cyclist highlighted the benefits of cycling in daily life. “I have been cycling for the past 15 years… I keep my bicycle at my office and use it for short trips and small errands instead of a car…” he said.

In Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah flagged off a cyclothon to mark the occasion.

J&K Sports Minister Satish Sharma said, “We have seen the last 30 years; no enemy would have seen what we have seen. We have faced many difficulties and a lot of hardships. One of the biggest issues that has emerged is drugs. Keeping this theme in mind, on World Bicycle Day, we have highlighted these challenges…”

Nasir Aslam, Advisor to the J&K Chief Minister, said, “This is a very good initiative. We are trying to promote sports activities and such events in Jammu and Kashmir. As you have seen, earlier a golf event was organised; before that we held a marathon, and now we are organising this cyclothon… This also helps in promoting tourism…”

Meanwhile, BYCS organised a World Bicycle Day event in Delhi’s Hauz Khas area, bringing together cycling advocates, health experts and enthusiasts.

BYCS India Foundation CEO, Bhairavi Joshi, said, “More than 55 cities are connected with us through Bicycle Mayors who are working for cycling advocacy…”

Jagdish Rajesh, Deputy Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research, said, “This Bicycle Day is a good initiative, and we have all gathered here for it….”

Bicycle Mayor Dilip Sabharwal added, “Today is World Bicycle Day. It is celebrated across the globe, and today we are celebrating it here in Delhi…”

The events highlighted cycling’s role in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being, sustainable mobility and environmental conservation, with participants and organisers alike calling for greater adoption of bicycles in everyday life.

–IANS

rs/rad