The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports held the 88th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle on August 30, 2026, with Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya leading the event at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. The cycling initiative, which runs simultaneously across the country each week, drew ambassadors and officials from BRICS nations as India prepares to host the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12-13. The event attracted over 5,000 participants at the main venue and unfolded at more than 25,000 locations nationwide.
What happened and the numbers
The 88th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle was timed to coincide with BRICS Run and Ride 2026, a special initiative bringing together representatives from partner nations. Diplomats and officials from Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia, Belarus, Cuba, Ethiopia and Russia participated in the cycling event. The timing was deliberate, said Dr. Mandaviya, as a welcome to BRICS dignitaries attending the summit later that week.
The cycling drive expanded to over 25,000 venues across all states and union territories, operating through sports facilities including SAI Regional Centres, National Centres of Excellence, and Khelo India State Centres of Excellence. India cricket team head coach Gautam Gambhir, wrestler Sangram Singh and actor Madhurima Tuli joined participants at the main event.
Dr. Mandaviya outlined three reasons for promoting cycling: improving fitness levels, reducing air pollution and easing traffic pressure in cities. He urged people to dedicate at least an hour each day away from screens to pursue outdoor activities.
What this means for you
The Fit India Sundays on Cycle programme offers a free, organised opportunity to cycle every Sunday across your state or district, whether you are young, senior or somewhere in between. If you participate, you join thousands of fellow cyclists working toward better personal health and a cleaner environment. The scheme operates through existing sports infrastructure, making it accessible in most areas without requiring separate registration or fees.