In a spirited show of collective energy, Odisha turned its streets into a moving canvas of health and hope as the ‘Cycle on Sunday’ programme rolled out with resounding success.
Organised by the Department of Sports and Youth Services under the ‘Fit Odisha’ campaign, the event beautifully echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nationwide Fit India Mission, inspiring citizens to embrace cycling as a way of life.
The colourful cycle rally was flagged off from Dumuduma Chowk by Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Commissioner-cum-Secretary Bhupendra Singh Poonia, and Sports Director Dr Yedula Vijay.
The 3.5-kilometre route wound through the city via Kids Hospital before concluding at the Ambedkar Education Centre, transforming a regular Sunday morning into a celebration of fitness and environmental consciousness.
Far more than just a bike ride, ‘Cycle on Sunday’ is a powerful movement aimed at reducing dependence on petrol and diesel vehicles, promoting cost-effective living, and building a cleaner, greener Odisha. By encouraging cycling, the state government is actively fostering healthier lifestyles, reducing pollution, and nurturing sustainable habits among citizens of all ages.
In a special tribute, the minister felicitated Shri Rudrakesh Jena, Joint Sports Director of Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), for his outstanding contribution in aligning the initiative with the core values of fitness, sustainability, and environmental stewardship.
The rally saw enthusiastic participation from a diverse cross-section of society, including personnel from CISF and CRPF, volunteers of My Bharat, NSS Odisha, RSS, renowned athletes, cycling enthusiasts, youth, and health-conscious citizens.
Senior officials such as Additional Secretaries Ashok Kumar Panda, Bijay Kumar Swain, and Sudhakar Nayak, along with Chief Strategy Officer of Playtroit Dr Sanjana Kiran and district sports officers who attended a pre-event Chintan Shivir (brainstorming camp), also joined the ride, amplifying the message of unity in motion.
With thousands of wheels spinning in unison, ‘Cycle on Sunday’ has not only strengthened the Fit Odisha dream but has also created an inspiring blueprint for community-driven wellness and eco-friendly living across the state.
