Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led a cycling rally with members of the Indian diaspora in Glasgow, Scotland, on Thursday under the ‘Cheer for Bharat’ initiative, promoting the message of fitness, healthy living and community participation while rallying support for the Indian contingent at the Commonwealth Games 2026.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from members of the Indian community, who joined the Minister in encouraging Indian athletes and reaffirming their commitment to making physical activity an integral part of daily life.
The cycling initiative reflected the Government of India’s continued efforts to promote an active lifestyle while strengthening people-to-people ties with the Indian diaspora through sports and fitness. During the rally, Mandaviya interacted with participants and appreciated their enthusiasm in advancing the ideals of the Fit India Movement.
Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister said it was encouraging to see the Indian diaspora unite under the ‘Cheer for Bharat’ initiative to support athletes representing the country at the Commonwealth Games 2026. He said the event also conveyed a strong global message that fitness is essential for every individual and every society.
Recalling Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision behind the Fit India Movement, Mandaviya said the enthusiastic participation of the Indian diaspora reflected their continued association with the movement and their commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles across the world.
Emphasising that a developed nation can only be built on the foundation of healthy citizens, the Minister urged all Indians to actively participate in the Fit India Movement and contribute towards the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Highlighting the multiple benefits of cycling, Mandaviya said the activity not only promotes physical fitness but also helps reduce pollution and traffic congestion.
“Through this cycling initiative, we want to give the world the message that cycling can help protect our health, our environment and our planet,” he said.
Mandaviya is currently in Glasgow for the Commonwealth Games 2026, where he is interacting with Indian athletes, officials and members of the Indian diaspora as part of the Government’s continued efforts to promote sports excellence and advance the vision of a fitter India.
