Union Minister Promotes Sports and Fitness at 'Sundays on Cycle' in Japan

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya led the 91st 'Sundays on Cycle' event in Nagoya, Japan, on September 20, 2026, to support Indian athletes at the Asian Games. This initiative aims to strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora while promoting fitness and healthy living. Mandaviya praised the enthusiasm of the Indian community in Nagoya for rallying behind Team India, highlighting the government's commitment to sports excellence. The 'Sundays on Cycle' initiative, organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, takes place nationwide, encouraging fitness through cycling. Read more to discover how this event fosters community spirit and supports athletes on an international stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 20, 2026, 14:56 IST

Union Minister Engages with Indian Diaspora in Japan

On September 20, 2026, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, spearheaded the 91st edition of the 'Sundays on Cycle' event at Meijo Park in Nagoya, Japan. This gathering aimed to rally support for the Indian athletes competing in the Asian Games 2026.

This initiative showcases the Indian government's ongoing commitment to fostering connections with the diaspora through sports, while promoting the ideals of fitness and healthy living as part of the Fit India Movement, according to a statement from the Union Sports Ministry.

Minister Encourages Team India Support

During the event, Mandaviya engaged with participants, expressing his appreciation for their enthusiasm in supporting Team India at the Asian Games. The Indian community in Nagoya united under the 'Sundays on Cycle' initiative to 'Cheer for Bharat' and uplift the spirits of the athletes competing on this significant continental platform.

Dr. Mandaviya stated, 'The Asian Games have begun in Nagoya, Japan, with over 500 young athletes from India participating. The Indian diaspora here has shown remarkable enthusiasm in supporting our athletes by joining the Sundays on Cycle event.' He added, 'I am pleased to report that our contingent is performing admirably, and our diaspora is actively contributing to their morale.'

Minister's Engagement at the Asian Games

Currently in Nagoya for the Asian Games 2026, Mandaviya is interacting with Indian athletes, officials, and members of the diaspora, emphasizing the government's ongoing efforts to promote sports excellence and a healthier India on the international stage.

Overview of the 'Sundays on Cycle' Initiative

'Sundays on Cycle' is a fitness initiative organized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS) in partnership with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Raahgiri Foundation, and MY Bharat. This cycling event takes place simultaneously across all states and union territories, including SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs), SAI Training Centres (STCs), Khelo India State Centres of Excellence (KISCEs), and Khelo India Centres (KICs). Additionally, over 6000 NAMO Fit India clubs conduct this cycling initiative weekly across the nation.