Armed Forces Add Patriotic Spirit to Fit India Cycling Event in Delhi

New Delhi: A unique blend of patriotism, discipline and fitness was on display in the national capital on Sunday as the 73rd edition of ‘Fit India Sundays on Cycle’ turned into a grand celebration featuring personnel from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force alongside hundreds of citizens.

Held at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, the special Armed Forces-themed edition of the nationwide cycling campaign witnessed participation from more than 800 people. Around 60 representatives from the three defence services — 20 each from the Army, Navy and Air Force — joined athletes, students, fitness enthusiasts and families for the event.

Adding to the attraction, nearly 15 players from the Indian Air Force Cricket Team also participated in the cycling rally. The sight of uniformed personnel cycling together through the streets of Delhi created a powerful and inspiring atmosphere.

Senior officers including Group Captain M.L.S. Prasad of the Indian Air Force, Lt. Col. Dara Singh from the Indian Army and Captain Manish Sain from the Indian Navy attended the event. Wrestlers Priya Malik and Diksha Malik, both associated with the Indian Army, were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Group Captain M.L.S. Prasad said the armed forces were proud to be part of the initiative and emphasised that staying physically fit should become a habit for every citizen.

Lt. Col. Dara Singh praised the campaign for promoting discipline and a healthy lifestyle. He said such initiatives also strengthen the message of a drug-free society and reflect Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a fitter India.

International wrestler Diksha Malik encouraged people of all age groups to take part in fitness activities, saying cycling brings energy, enjoyment and a sense of unity.

The venue wore the look of a patriotic fitness carnival from the early hours of the morning. Participants enjoyed high-energy Zumba sessions, yoga demonstrations, rope-skipping activities, volleyball matches, lemon-spoon races and several recreational events.

A special yoga consultation booth set up by the Ministry of AYUSH under its Yoga 365 initiative also attracted large crowds. Participants received wellness guidance and information about yoga practices suited for different health conditions.

One of the biggest highlights of the event was the rare sight of Army, Navy and Air Force personnel cycling shoulder to shoulder with ordinary citizens. Families and children gathered around the venue, clicking photographs and cheering as the contingents rolled out together.

Ritu Sharma, a resident of Lodhi Road who attended the event with her family, said she had never witnessed anything like it before and felt both proud and motivated watching the armed forces ride alongside the public.

College student Aakash Meena described the atmosphere as a mix of a Republic Day celebration and a fitness festival, saying the presence of all three armed forces together inspired everyone at the venue.

With inputs from IANS