Cycling a dual fix for pollution and fitness: Mandaviya at BRICS Friendship Ride

Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya on Sunday described cycling as an effective way to combat pollution and improve physical fitness, while participating in the BRICS Friendship Cycling event held as part of the BRICS Youth and Sports Ministers’ Meeting 2026.

The event, held in Visakhapatnam, saw delegates from all BRICS nations take part in the ride. Mr. Mandaviya noted that the cycling event coincided with the “Sundays on Cycle” initiative under the Fit India movement, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the initiative was held in around 1,800 cities across the country on Sunday, with about 50 lakh (five million) young people participating nationwide.

Describing cycling as an excellent form of exercise, Mr. Mandaviya called it a good solution to pollution and a means of improving fitness. He appealed to people to take part in cycling every Sunday to safeguard their health. His remarks underscore the growing emphasis on integrating physical activity with environmental sustainability in public health messaging.

The rally, held on a route from the Novotel Hotel to the Sea Harrier Museum and back, was attended by Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse, MLC Vepada Chiranjeevi Rao, Gajuwaka MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao, BRICS delegates, Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) managing director Bharani, Visakhapatnam Commissioner of Police Shankhabrata Bagchi, Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) Commissioner Ketan Garg, District Sports Development Officer (DSDO) June Gallyot, Project Director (Urban Community Development) Satyaveni, besides Central government officials and a large number of young people.

The BRICS Youth and Sports Ministers’ Meeting 2026, of which this cycling event was a part, brings together member countries to discuss cooperation in youth development and sports. Such events are intended to foster people-to-people ties and promote healthy lifestyles across nations. The participation of delegates from all BRICS countries in the cycling ride highlights the shared commitment to addressing common challenges such as urban pollution and sedentary lifestyles.

The Fit India movement, launched in 2019, aims to encourage daily physical activity and sports among Indians. The “Sundays on Cycle” initiative specifically promotes cycling as a sustainable mode of transport and a recreational activity. According to official estimates, the initiative has gained significant traction, with millions of citizens, especially the youth, participating in weekly rides across urban and rural areas.

Cycling is widely recognised by health experts as a low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and reduces stress. As a mode of transport, it also contributes to lower vehicular emissions, making it an environment-friendly choice. Mr. Mandaviya’s appeal aligns with broader policy efforts to integrate fitness into daily life while addressing environmental concerns.

The Visakhapatnam event is part of a series of activities planned under the BRICS Youth and Sports Ministers’ Meeting. With the participation of officials, athletes, and young citizens, the event showcased the potential of sports diplomacy in strengthening international cooperation. The large turnout at the cycling rally reflects a growing public interest in fitness initiatives and sustainable practices.