Aiming to bolster maritime vigilance and celebrate national integration, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is launching the second edition of ‘Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026’.
The 25-day expedition is scheduled to begin on January 28 and will cover the entire mainland coastline of India.
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Organised under the theme “Surakshit Tat, Samridh Bharat”, the cyclothon aims to bridge the gap between security forces and coastal inhabitants. With over 95% of India’s trade passing through its over 250 ports, the initiative highlights the critical need for community-led vigilance against smuggling, infiltration, and illegal activities.
This year, the event will feature two teams moving simultaneously from the opposite ends of the country.
The route is a massive 6553-km journey, spanning nine coastal states and multiple Union Territories. One of the teams will start from Lakhpat Fort (in Kutch, Gujarat) and pass through Mumbai, Goa, and Mangaluru. The other team will start from Bakkhali (in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal), passing through Visakhapatnam, Chennai, and Kanyakumari. According to the information available , both the teams will be meeting in Kerala’s Kochi on February 22, 2026, for the grand culmination. At least 130 CISF personnel will be taking part in the event.
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In a significant move toward inclusivity, 65 of the participants are women, reflecting the operational strength of female officers within the force. Participants have undergone a month of professional coaching, focusing on endurance, bicycle maintenance, and nutrition management to handle the long-distance trek.
The cyclothon also serves to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’.
At least 130 CISF personnel will be taking part in the event. (file) 
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