Pune on Pedal: 2,500 cyclists rally to promote fitness, environment conservation

Union Minister of State for youth affairs and sports, Raksha Khadse, inaugurated the rally organised by Rajya Sabha MP, Prof Dr Medha Kulkarni, by waving the green flag. Among the dignitaries present were skydiver PadmaShri Shital Mahajan, Indian cricketer Rahul Tripathi, former corporators Jayant Bhave and Vishram Kulkarni. At the event, Khadse emphasised the benefits of cycling for both physical and mental health, as well as environmental conservation.

Khadse further said, “PM Modi has consistently promoted the ‘Fit India’ movement. Cycling plays a key role in staying fit. To instill the importance of sports in children, awareness campaigns are being held in villages. The Ministry of Sports is implementing initiatives to foster sportsmanship in children. This cycle rally initiated by Prof Dr Medhatai Kulkarni is commendable, and the enthusiasm of Pune residents for cycling is truly inspiring.”

The Pune on Pedal initiative, now in its fifth year, encourages the use of bicycles for health benefits. The city known for its strong cycling culture hosted over 2,500 cyclists in this year’s rally. At the event, Khadse distributed free bicycles to underprivileged children. As Dr Medha Kulkarni said, all participants were awarded medals, certificates and T-shirts. Shital Mahajan, Rahul Tripathi and other attendees also encouraged Puneites to cycle more frequently.