Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, on Saturday underscored the crucial role of fitness in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, while addressing the first-ever National Fitness & Wellness Conclave 2025 held in Mumbai.
At the event, the Minister felicitated the newly appointed Fit India Icons – filmmaker Rohit Shetty, World Cup-winning cricketer Harbhajan Singh, and Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal – for their contribution to promoting fitness and wellness among citizens.
Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Nikhil Khadse, also honoured Saiyami Kher, Shivoham, and Vrinda Bhatt as Fit India Icons. Additionally, Ankur Garg, Karan Tacker, Vishwas Patil, and Krishna Prakash were felicitated as Fit India Ambassadors for their continuous efforts to inspire people to adopt active lifestyles.
Speaking at the conclave, Mandaviya said, “If we do not understand the value of fitness, it will not be possible to realise the Prime Minister’s vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.”
Reflecting on lifestyle changes, he added, “In earlier days, people walked or cycled long distances – fitness was natural. Today, in a digital world, we hardly move. We must consciously bring fitness back into our daily lives.”
The Minister linked fitness to economic growth, noting that India’s expanding middle class must lead the way in adopting healthy habits. “Only if the middle class and upper middle class give priority to fitness will we grow faster as a nation. With 65% of our population below 35 years, the fitness revolution can transform India’s productivity and potential,” he said.
He also highlighted the economic opportunities in sports and fitness, stating, “Fitness is not only about health – it is integral to business. There’s a vast market for sports goods, nutrition supplements, and fitness equipment. Harnessing sports science and promoting Make in India products can boost the fitness industry immensely.”
Khadse emphasized the importance of a collective approach to a fitter India. “India is emerging as a sporting nation, and the opportunities in the fitness world are immense. The entire ecosystem – from schools to families – must come together to promote fitness. Initiatives like ‘Sundays on Cycle’ may seem small but can bring lasting results,” she said.
Rohit Shetty cautioned youth against misinformation from unqualified online “health influencers.” “It’s a scary scenario. The new generation must be careful and patient. Real fitness takes time – there’s no shortcut,” he warned.
Saina Nehwal spoke about the link between fitness and sports culture, saying, “Look at China and Japan – their success comes from a strong fitness foundation. In India, the mindset is changing, but parents must be patient and focus on fitness first. Keep that mobile phone away and encourage physical activity,” she advised.
Harbhajan Singh praised Virat Kohli’s contribution to bringing fitness awareness in Indian cricket. “We always had skill, but now our players are among the fittest in the world. They don’t drop catches anymore. Eat right, rest right, and train properly – it makes all the difference,” he said, while lauding the government’s efforts to promote fitness nationwide.
Two panel discussions at the conclave brought together experts, athletes, and industry stakeholders, who agreed that fitness culture must begin early, with parents playing a key role in reducing children’s screen time and encouraging outdoor activities.
Experts also cautioned against spurious supplements, misleading fitness advice, and the growing influence of junk food delivery apps, stressing the need for greater awareness and regulatory checks to protect consumers.