100s of students ride for India’s healthy tomorrow
Adil Nazir
Sopore, Jun 6 : Hundreds of school children took to the streets of north Kashmir’s Sopore town early on Saturday as the Sports Development Forum (SDF), in collaboration with the J&K Sports Council, organised the ‘Fit India Cyclothon 2026’ and ‘Pedal for Fitness’ event.
The cyclothon, aimed at promoting fitness, health awareness, and an active lifestyle among the younger generation, witnessed an overwhelming response, with young cyclists pedalling through the main bypass road before concluding their journey at the Khushal Stadium amid cheering from parents and locals.
The event was flagged off at 6:00 AM from the Bypass Railway Station, Sopore, by chief guest DySP Muhammad Abdullah.
DySP Muhammad Abdullah, speaking on the occasion, said such fitness drives were critical for keeping the youth away from drug abuse and social vices while instilling discipline and community bonding. “The police department is committed to supporting every civil initiative that builds a healthy and strong generation,” the DySP said, adding that regular cycling and physical activity could act as a powerful deterrent against growing sedentary habits among school children.
Javid Ahmad Bhat, President of the Sports Development Forum, Sopore, said the primary objective was to channel the energy of the youth into constructive fitness habits. “We are witnessing a sedentary lifestyle crisis. Today, we saw hundreds of students choose the bicycle over the screen. This is the true spirit of ‘Healthy India, Strong India’,” Bhat said.
The event, supported by the Sanctorum Institute of Education, Sopore, concluded with a pledge ceremony at Khushal Stadium, reinforcing the mission of the ‘Fit India Movement’.
