Garhwal Post Bureau
Mussoorie, 6 Jul: A cool mountain morning, roads flanked by greenery, and amidst it all, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya riding a bicycle. This scene in Mussoorie on Monday drew everyone’s attention. By leading a cycle rally alongside IAS trainee officers of the 2024 batch—currently undergoing training at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration (LBSNAA)—the Union Minister not only infused new energy into the ‘Fit India Movement’ but also conveyed a message about adopting a healthy lifestyle to the nation’s future administrators.
Starting from the academy campus, the cycle journey proceeded via Academy Road, Alok Marg, and Company Garden before returning to Academy Road. Along the entire route, locals and tourists greeted the Union Minister and the trainee officers. Many people captured photos and videos of this unique initiative on their mobile phones.
Dr Mansukh Mandaviya cycled alongside the trainee officers throughout the journey. During the ride, he remarked that, for officers destined to lead the country, physical and mental fitness is just as crucial as administrative competence. He stated that a healthy body forms the strongest foundation for positive thinking, superior decision-making, and effective leadership. He added, “In today’s fast-paced life, people often struggle to find time for their health. If every individual dedicates some time daily to cycling, walking, running, yoga, or sports, many lifestyle-related diseases can be prevented. Only a fit individual can contribute effectively to the development of their family, society, and the nation.”
The Union Minister noted that the officers training at LBSNAA would assume administrative responsibilities across various states and districts in the coming years. In this context, regular exercise and fitness would play a pivotal role in maintaining their work efficiency, stamina, and mental balance. He urged the trainees not to view fitness merely as a personal habit but to transform it into a mass movement—fostering public participation—wherever they are posted. Addressing the youth specifically, he noted that physical activity is declining amidst an increasing reliance on mobile screens and digital devices, a trend that raises concerns for the future. Therefore, he emphasised that young people must dedicate at least one hour daily to activities such as sports, yoga, running, or cycling.
The message of environmental conservation was also prominently highlighted during the cycle rally. Dr Mandaviya stated that maximizing the use of bicycles for short distances would save fuel, reduce pollution, and strengthen environmental conservation efforts. He remarked that the goals of ‘Fit India’ and ‘Green India’ complement each other.
Winding through the scenic landscapes and natural surroundings of Mussoorie, the cycle rally became a major attraction for the public. Local residents lauded the initiative for effectively linking health, the environment, and public awareness.
Meanwhile, the IAS trainee officers pledged to incorporate regular fitness activities into their daily routines and to promote the ‘Fit India’ campaign in their future workplaces.
