Fitness Meets Green Mobility: Odisha Embraces “Sundays on Cycle”

Bhubaneswar , June 2026: In a significant move to reinforce the vision of a healthy, green, and fit Odisha, the “Sunday on Cycle” initiative was successfully organized today. Held under the aegis of the ‘Fit Odisha’ campaign, the event was organized by the Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha.

The mega cycling rally was jointly flagged off by the Honorable Minister for Sports and Youth Services, Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Shri Bhupendra Singh Poonia, and Director of Sports, Dr. Yedula Vijay. The 3.5-kilometer rally commenced from Dumduma Square, passed through Kids Hospital, and culminated at the Ambedkar Learning Centre.

“Sunday on Cycle” transcends being just a cycling event; it is a nationwide health and fitness movement aligned with the ‘Fit India Mission’. Through such campaigns, the Government of Odisha continuously encourages citizens reduce dependency on petrol and diesel-powered vehicles, adopt cost-effective and economical lifestyle habits, contribute actively to building a clean, pollution-free, and green environment.

In recognition of his alignment with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Fit India’ vision and his reflection of values centered on fitness, sustainability, and environmental management, Shri Rudrakesh Jena, Joint Director of Sports at the Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences (KISS), was felicitated and presented with a prestigious recognition by the Sports Minister.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from a wide cross-section of society. Key participating groups and organizations included Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) & Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel, Volunteers from MY Bharat and NSS Odisha, Volunteers from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). Prominent sports personalities, cycling enthusiasts, youth, and health-conscious citizens.

The collective participation of these groups created an inspiring atmosphere, successfully promoting a healthy lifestyle, environmental awareness, and community wellness.

The special ride was graced by several high-profile dignitaries, including the Additional Secretaries of the Sports and Youth Services Department, Shri Ashok Kumar Panda, Shri Bijay Kumar Swain, and Shri Sudhakar Nayak.

Additionally, Chief Strategic Officer (Playtroit) Dr. Sanjana Kiran, along with other experts, District Sports Officers (DSOs) from various districts, and departmental officials who attended the ongoing Chintan Shivir, actively participated in the cycling rally.

Avinash Sagar