Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya unveiled the trophy for the UCI Class 2.2 Pune Grand Tour, a renowned international cycling competition, during an event in New Delhi.

In his speech to the attendees, Mandaviya emphasised the increasing significance of cycling within India’s sports and fitness landscape, pointing out that programs like Sundays on Cycle as part of the Fit India Movement have been instrumental in integrating cycling into everyday routines and the nation’s sporting traditions. He stressed the notable increase in awareness about fitness nationwide, with cycling becoming a popular choice for individuals across all age groups.

Describing cycling as one of the most holistic forms of fitness, the minister said it promotes physical endurance, mental well-being and environmental sustainability, while aligning closely with the objectives of the Fit India Movement. “Cycling must be promoted not only as a fitness activity but also as a competitive sport and a cultural movement capable of producing Olympic champions,” he said, adding that events such as the University Games and the upcoming Pune Grand Tour reflect India’s growing capacity to host world-class sporting competitions.

Mandaviya also said Indian sports governance is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by athlete-centric policies, transparent selection systems and a strong commitment to gender equality. He stated that the UCI Class 2.2 Pune Grand Tour stands as evidence of India’s readiness to deliver sporting events of the highest international standards and reflects the nation’s ambition to emerge as a global sporting powerhouse.

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Calling for wider adoption of cycling at the grassroots level, the Minister urged states such as Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra to recognise cycling as a state sport to strengthen talent identification and participation. He further emphasised the need for institutional harmony among sports federations, noting that teamwork and the absence of internal disputes have been key contributors to India’s sporting progress.

The Sports Minister also revealed that a comprehensive 10-year roadmap, along with a long-term strategy leading up to 2036, has already been formulated. “These initiatives aim to position India among the top 10 sporting nations by 2036 and within the top five by 2047, coinciding with the centenary of India’s Independence,” he said.

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