Union Sports Minister Promotes Cycling and Self-Reliance at Hanol Festival

Cycling Initiative in Hanol Village

On Thursday, Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya participated in a cycling event in Hanol village, located in Bhavnagar district, as part of the Fit India Cycling initiative. This event coincided with the Atmanirbhar Hanol Festival, which runs from January 13 to 15 and was inaugurated by Mandaviya along with Union Minister for Agriculture and Family Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Encouraging Cycling for a Healthier Lifestyle

Mandaviya highlighted the growing popularity of the 'Sunday on Cycle' initiative across the nation, encouraging citizens, particularly the youth, to adopt cycling for local transportation as a means to foster a healthier and environmentally friendly lifestyle. In an interview, he stated, 'Sunday on Cycle has evolved into a nationwide campaign. In my village, Hanol, every household owns a bicycle, and it is commonly used for travel. I urge all young people and citizens to consider cycling for their local journeys.'

Vision for Self-Reliant Villages

Discussing the village of Hanol, Mandaviya noted that Prime Minister Modi has consistently promoted a vision for rural development, which includes prosperous local governance, skill development centers, playgrounds, animal shelters, and cleanliness initiatives. He mentioned, 'Hanol celebrates its foundation day annually from January 13 to 15. This year, we made a special commitment to self-reliance, aligning with PM Modi's vision.'

Fit India's Cycling Rally in Delhi

In a related event, the Fit India movement's flagship program, 'Sundays on Cycle,' made a lively return in Delhi, attracting over 1,000 participants, including 500 young leaders. The fitness festival culminated in a cycling rally that took place at 7 AM despite the chilly 6-degree weather. The rally was led by Mansukh Mandaviya, accompanied by tennis star Leander Paes, badminton champion Pullela Gopichand, and rising international wrestler Shivani Pawar.