A brisk morning walk, cycling and breathing exercises have become a part of Harshukh Bhalodia’s routine for the last two months. An employee with the AG Office Audit Department, he is not preparing for a sports meet, but to go on a pilgrimage to Kailash-Mansarovar.Starting this year, the Government has toughened fitness norms to avoid casualties. Pilgrims will have to pass medical tests in Delhi and Gunji, located on India-China border. Earlier, no tests were conducted in Delhi and a medical certificate issued by a recognised hospital was sufficient. But, now 14 medical tests in Delhi and again some fitness tests, including blood pressure check-up, in Gunji will have to be cleared.Pilgrims like Bhalodia have started preparations. Waiting for his call from the Ministry of External Affairs about the date of departure, which he is expecting any time this month, Bhalodia said: ‘‘I had failed the fitness test last time. But not this year.’’ Not wanting to return half-way, Bhalodia has been going all the way to keep fit.‘‘Earlier, health was not a criterion. Faith was enough. Now, that authorities have become strict, even pilgrims have pulled up their socks in preparing for the tough conditions ahead,’’ Yasvant Goswami, who runs a centre to provide assistance, said. May to August is the time for the pilgrimage and Goswami, who had gone with the first batch, returned a couple of days ago. While many would-be pilgrims want to increase their stamina, others want to control their breathing. ‘‘It’s a tough one. The pilgrims have to bear the cold as they walk for nine days to reach Kailash and Mansarovar.’’
