Srinagar May 04: The Department of Youth Services and Sports (YSS), J&K, marked a historic milestone by organising the Fit India Sundays Cycling Expedition across all the 20 districts of the UT. The initiative, held under the national Fit India Movement, witnessed massive participation from students, field officials of YSS, local communities, and sports enthusiasts, reinforcing the importance of fitness, health consciousness, and sustainable living. The event was conducted under the visionary leadership of Secretary to the Government, Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Sarmad Hafeez and Director General, YSS, Rajinder Singh Tara, who have been instrumental in driving transformative fitness campaigns across the UT.
The cycling rallies, held simultaneously in all the districts, were designed to inspire citizens of all ages to embrace an active lifestyle. From the bustling streets of Srinagar to the serene valleys of Kishtwar, the event brought together thousands of cyclists, symbolizing unity, discipline, and a collective commitment to fitness. The initiative aimed not only to promote physical well-being but also to foster environmental consciousness by advocating for eco-friendly transportation.
Srinagar witnessed a grand cycling rally flagged off by Joint Director YSS Kashmir Mohammad Rashid Kohli along with DYSSO Srinagar Gh Hassan Lone from Youth Hostel Wazir Bagh. The rally traversed key landmarks, including Jawahar Nagar and L.D. Hospital, with DYSSO Srinagar
In Bandipora, the event was flagged off by the District Youth Services and Sports Officer (DYSSO), who led the rally from HS Qazipora to NMBHSS Kaloosa. His active participation alongside students set a powerful example, reinforcing the message that fitness knows no age barriers.
Budgam organized a district-wide cycling initiative across all 12 sports zones, with DYSSO Budgam spearheading the movement. The event saw enthusiastic participation from officials, setting an example for the community. Poonch held a spirited rally from BHSS Mendhar to OP Hill Stadium, while Baramulla witnessed one of the largest turnouts, with rallies conducted in 15 sports zones including Dangiwacha, Sopore, and Uri. DYSSO Baramulla, Zahoor Ahmad Wani, lauded the efforts of field staff and locals, stating, “Fitness is not just an individual goal but a collective responsibility. Pulwama’s Cycling Sunday brought together people of all ages, with DYSSO Choudhary Mohammad Qasim highlighting the role of such events in fostering community bonding. Jammu saw over 450 officials cycling from Sports Office Gandhi Nagar to Green Field, with DYSSO Sukh Dev Raj Sharma stressing the importance of staying fit to combat social evils.
Ganderbal’s event covered scenic routes from Duderhama Clock Tower to GCOPE Gadoora, while Kishtwar turned into a “fitness carnival,” with cyclists flooding the streets in a high-energy spectacle. DYSSO Kishtwar described it as a revolution on two wheels. Kathua, Doda, and Kupwara also held successful rallies, with DYSSO Kathua Sunil Singh Sambyal, DYSSO Doda Pritem Singh and DYSSO Kupwara leading from the front. The Kupwara event, flagged off from Lal Bridge to Villagam, saw 50 cyclists competing, with local police officials extending full support. These cycling expeditions stand as a shining example of how collective effort can drive transformative change, paving the way for a fitter, brighter future for all.
