India’s Health at a Crossroads: The Call for a Fit Nation

India is facing an unprecedented health crisis fueled by the rapid rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and mental health disorders. With over 77 million diabetics and one in four adults suffering from high blood pressure, lifestyle diseases are now a dominant cause of death and disability in the country. Urbanization, sedentary habits, poor dietary choices, and increasing stress levels have only exacerbated the situation—impacting productivity, family well-being, and economic growth.

Acknowledging the gravity of this growing public health challenge ,Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Fit India Movement on 29th August 2019. This national initiative marked a major shift in India’s health policy—from focusing solely on treatment to embracing prevention and wellness. The movement urges every citizen to make fitness a daily habit, embedding healthy choices into their routines at home, school, work, and in their communities.

The Fit India Movement is unique in its holistic approach. It promotes not just physical activity but also balanced nutrition, mental well-being, and sustainable lifestyle habits. Through campaigns, challenges, and certification programs like Fit India School , the initiative has reached millions and created a cultural shift toward prioritizing health. It’s an inclusive effort that aims to make wellness accessible and aspirational across all demographics.

India’s path forward lies in embracing fitness as a collective responsibility. Government efforts alone are not enough—schools, families, institutions, and individuals must all commit to this mission. By taking small steps today, we can avert larger crises tomorrow and ensure that the world’s most populous nation is also one of its healthiest. The time to act is now—and it begins with each one of us.

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The stakes are high. A population burdened by disease strains the healthcare system and diminishes national productivity. Conversely, a fit nation enhances resilience, improves economic output, and secures long-term development goals. The Fit India Movement aligns perfectly with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) by placing people’s health at the heart of progress.

Hon’ble Prime Minister’s Vision: A Fit and Obesity-Free India

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for a “Fit India” is both expansive and deeply rooted in the everyday lives of citizens. It transcends the conventional definitions of fitness often associated with gym workouts or professional sports, and instead calls for a fundamental cultural shift—one where physical well-being is seamlessly integrated into daily routines, accessible to all, regardless of age, profession, or socioeconomic status.

The Fit India Movement, launched under his leadership, champions simple lifestyle modifications: walking or cycling to nearby destinations, choosing stairs over elevators, engaging in regular outdoor activities, and embracing mindful eating habits. These small yet impactful actions form the backbone of the Prime Minister’s call for a healthier and more active India.

At the heart of this initiative is a strategic and compassionate response to one of India’s most pressing health issues—the rapid rise of obesity and sedentary lifestyles, particularly in urban settings. Obesity is no longer just a cosmetic concern; it is a major risk factor contributing to a range of non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. The Prime Minister’s focus on prevention through proactive health habits represents a shift from reactive healthcare to a wellness-first approach, designed to reduce the burden on the nation’s health infrastructure while empowering individuals to take ownership of their well-being.

The Next Chapter: Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and ‘Sundays on Cycle’

Carrying forward this transformative vision with renewed vigor is Hon’ble Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. Under his dynamic leadership, the Fit India Movement has gained fresh momentum through innovative public campaigns—most notably, the launch of ‘Sundays on Cycle’ in December 2024.

This initiative reimagines Sundays not as passive rest days, but as opportunities for communities to actively engage in fitness, environmental responsibility, and social unity. Citizens across the country are encouraged to take to the streets on their bicycles—reclaiming roads and parks not for traffic, but for togetherness and health. By setting aside just one day a week for cycling, the campaign delivers far-reaching impacts:

• Improved public fitness levels, particularly in urban areas where sedentary habits are prevalent
• Youth engagement, by offering a healthy, positive outlet for recreation
• Environmental benefits, through reduced vehicular emissions and promotion of sustainable mobility
• Community bonding, as people from all walks of life come together with a shared purpose

What began as a fitness drive has quickly evolved into a national movement, symbolizing a united push towards a healthier and greener India.

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A Landmark Celebration: The 25th Edition of ‘Sundays on Cycle’ Marks a New Era in India’s Fitness Movement

On June 1, 2025, the 25th edition of ‘Sundays on Cycle’ unfolded as a landmark celebration at the historic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, marking a defining chapter in India’s growing movement toward fitness, sustainability, and national unity. What began as a weekly initiative has now transformed into a nationwide fitness revolution—and this silver edition of the campaign was an embodiment of all that the initiative stands for.

The event drew an overwhelming response, with thousands of cycling enthusiasts—including school children, working professionals, senior citizens, athletes, and public figures—coming together for a shared cause. As participants pedaled in unison, the stadium and adjoining streets echoed the collective energy of a nation embracing a healthier, more active lifestyle. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric, charged with hope, purpose, and an unmistakable spirit of community.

This milestone event also served as a precursor to World Bicycle Day (celebrated globally on June 3), adding further significance to the occasion. As cycling becomes an increasingly important tool for promoting health, reducing carbon footprints, and decongesting urban spaces, this edition of Sundays on Cycle amplified the message that cycling is not just a mode of transport—it is a movement for social good.

But beyond fitness and environmental advocacy, the 25th edition was made even more poignant by its dedication to the Indian Armed Forces. The event honored the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers, particularly those who demonstrated extraordinary courage in recent operations along the Pakistan border. A deeply moving Tiranga Rally was organized as part of the celebrations—participants rode their cycles waving the Indian flag with pride, paying heartfelt tribute to the valor and dedication of our defense personnel. It was a stirring reminder that fitness and patriotism go hand-in-hand, each reinforcing the values of resilience, discipline, and unity.

Adding to the emotional and celebratory tone of the event was the presence of several notable guests who lent their voices and energy to the campaign. Hon’ble Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, graced the event as the Chief Guest, and the occasion was made even more memorable as it coincided with his birthday—making it a truly personal and symbolic moment in the journey of the Fit India Movement under his leadership.

The event was further elevated by the participation of London Olympics 2012 bronze medalist wrestler Yogeshwar Dutt, Bollywood actress Sarvari, and the inspirational Push-Up Man of India, Rohtash Chaudhary. These icons from sports and entertainment added star power to the event while underscoring a powerful message: Fitness is for everyone—regardless of profession, age, or background.

Together, the guests and participants united to amplify the ongoing national effort to #FightObesity, promote active lifestyles, and foster a sense of belonging and shared responsibility. Their presence and participation reflected the campaign’s growing popularity and credibility across diverse segments of society.

In essence, the synergistic efforts of Prime Minister Modi and Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya are forging a new narrative for India—where wellness is not a privilege, but a national priority. Initiatives like ‘Sundays on Cycle’ are catalysts of change, inspiring millions to embrace a lifestyle that is active, inclusive, and aligned with the nation’s larger vision of progress and sustainability.

The Numbers Speak

• 5,500+ locations have hosted the campaign
• 3,00,000+ citizens have participated since inception
• 44 billion+ digital impressions have been generated

Youth Engagement: The Catalyst for Change

Young people are the backbone of any nation, and the Fit India Movement is leveraging this demographic wisely. Sundays on Cycle has become an avenue for youth to engage in constructive, disciplined, and health-centric activities. This initiative gives them a sense of purpose, physical activity, and a break from screen-heavy lifestyles.

Fitness clubs, school groups, and community teams are now organizing rides in local neighborhoods. This grassroots involvement not only fuels the movement but also plants the seeds for a generation that values wellness and sustainability.

A Green Revolution on Two Wheels

Beyond health, the campaign serves a critical environmental purpose. By encouraging cycling, it reduces dependence on motor vehicles, thus minimizing fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions. If adopted on a larger scale, Sundays on Cycle can contribute significantly to India’s carbon credit goals. With every pedal stroke, we reduce our ecological footprint.

Moreover, this initiative has the potential to influence urban planning. As demand grows for safer, cycle-friendly roads, city planners will be compelled to design inclusive infrastructures. Green belts, dedicated cycling lanes, and traffic-free zones are no longer urban luxuries—they are necessities.

A Tool for Emotional and Mental Well-being

Cycling is more than a cardiovascular activity. It’s a form of mental detox. In an age of rising anxiety, depression, and social alienation, group cycling events foster community, interaction, and emotional upliftment. The psychological benefits of such regular engagements are immense—reducing stress, increasing focus, and enhancing emotional resilience.

The Economic Ripple Effect

Cycling is a low-cost, high-return activity. It reduces healthcare costs, promotes local business during events, and creates job opportunities—from bicycle rentals and repairs to event management and merchandise. Sundays on Cycle could very well be an economic booster while being socially responsible.

Scaling the Momentum

The Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) is committed to scaling up this transformative initiative. We envision ‘Sundays on Cycle’ becoming a national movement that reaches every Village, town, and metro city. With coordinated efforts from local authorities, educational institutions, NGOs, and private sector partners, this can become India’s largest grassroots fitness campaign.

The Fit India Movement and Sundays on Cycle have become national missions. Their success lies in collective ownership. We urge every Indian to:

• Join local cycling events
• Encourage schools and RWAs to host ‘Cycle Sundays’
• Demand safer cycling infrastructure
• Reduce short-distance motor vehicle usage

Let’s ride not just for ourselves, but for a stronger, fitter, and greener India.

A Pedal Toward Progress

As someone deeply engaged in public health and mass fitness drives, I see ‘Sundays on Cycle’ as a historic opportunity. It symbolizes everything the Fit India Movement stands for—health, unity, sustainability, and pride.

With the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Sports Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, we have the roadmap and momentum. What we now need is participation. If we scale this initiative nationwide, the impact on public health, environment, and youth engagement will be monumental.

Let’s pedal together, not just for a day—but for a healthier tomorrow.

Jai Hind!

-Dr. Piyush Jain
National Secretary
Physical Education Foundation of India