J&K Sports Council marks World Bicycle Day with valley-wide cycling rallies

Srinagar, Jun 1: In a spirited celebration of World Bicycle Day, the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council on Sunday organised a series of mass cycling rallies across the Union Territory, drawing widespread participation from youth, athletes, and local cycling clubs under the banner of the Fit India Movement.

As per a statement, held across multiple districts—from the tranquil valleys of Kashmir to the vibrant stretches of Jammu—the events witnessed enthusiastic participation from athletes and youth associated with JKSC in-house academies, Khelo India State Centres of Excellence, Khelo India Centres, PMDP Centres and local cycling clubs. These weren’t just fitness rallies—they were powerful expressions of peace, purpose, and collective progress.

In an era where physical well-being and mental resilience are vital to nation-building, cycling has emerged as a quiet yet powerful force for change. Guided by coaches, instructors, and officials of the Sports Council, participants cycled not only for health but also for a united, strong, and peaceful society.

Playfields and stadiums across the region echoed with the sound of spinning wheels and youthful enthusiasm. Two flagship rallies at M.A. Stadium in Jammu and Bakshi Stadium in Srinagar drew hundreds of cyclists across age groups, regions, and communities—undaunted by weather, united by a common goal.

At M.A. Stadium, Jammu, the event was flagged off by Nuzhat Gul, Secretary, J&K Sports Council, accompanied by Anissa Nabi, Chief Sports Officer, and other senior officials.

In Srinagar, at Bakshi Stadium, the rally was led by Nusrat Gazala, Divisional Sports Officer, Kashmir, and flagged off by Mushtaq Ahmad Zargar, Manager, Bakshi Stadium, in the presence of senior officials.

Minister for Youth Services and Sports, J&K, Satish Sharma, congratulated the participants, calling them the true ambassadors of J&K. “Every pedal push contributes to the prosperity of our society,” he said. “Events like these spread the message of fitness and bring communities together.” He reaffirmed his continued support for such initiatives.

Sarmad Hafeez, IAS, Secretary, Youth Services and Sports, J&K, expressed his appreciation for the widespread participation. “Seeing people of all ages pedal for a better future is truly inspiring and sets an example for others across Jammu & Kashmir,” he remarked.

Nuzhat Gul, speaking on the occasion, emphasised the holistic importance of fitness.

“Cycling isn’t just a physical activity—it represents a cultural shift. It fosters unity, discipline, and a spirit of well-being,” she said. “The Fit India Movement is building bridges between health and harmony, and J&K is embracing this vision wholeheartedly.”

She also acknowledged the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports for promoting the ‘Sundays on Cycle’ campaign, which is gaining momentum as a nationwide grassroots fitness movement.

The J&K Sports Council reiterated its commitment to promoting cycling as a sustainable and accessible sport and announced plans to organise cyclothons and competitive cycling events in the coming months, further strengthening grassroots participation and fitness culture across the region.

In Jammu & Kashmir, fitness has transcended the boundaries of stadiums—it’s now moving through streets, connecting communities, and paving the way for a healthier, more peaceful tomorrow.