Jammu And Kashmir CM Flags Off Cyclothon In Srinagar On World Bicycle Day
Cyclothon launched in Srinagar promoting fitness and youth awareness.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday flagged off a cyclothon in Srinagar on the occasion of World Bicycle Day. The event was held at the Royal Springs Golf Course (RSGC), bringing together cyclists, students and sports enthusiasts from across the Kashmir Valley. The initiative aimed to promote fitness, healthy living and a stronger sports culture among youth. It also highlighted cycling as a simple and sustainable mode of transport.
The cyclothon was organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council under its flagship programme ‘My Youth My Pride’. A large number of participants from different age groups took part in the awareness ride. Youth groups, students and cycling enthusiasts actively joined the event, reflecting growing interest in fitness activities. The programme saw enthusiastic engagement from both urban and semi-urban areas of the region.
During the event, the Chief Minister also launched the mascot, jersey and publicity campaign for the upcoming Jammu Cyclothon. He further announced that the Kashmir Cyclothon would be conducted as a national-level event. The move is aimed at attracting cyclists from across India and positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for adventure and sporting activities. Officials said dates for the Jammu Cyclothon were also announced on the occasion.
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Omar Abdullah, while interacting with participants, appreciated the rising popularity of cycling among youth. He stressed the importance of adopting active lifestyles to improve both physical and mental well-being. He also described cycling as an eco-friendly mode of transport that helps reduce pollution. The Chief Minister said such initiatives contribute positively to public health and environmental conservation.
He further highlighted the role of sports in addressing social issues such as drug abuse, sedentary habits and excessive screen time among youth. The event carried a strong awareness message promoting fitness and discipline through sports. Authorities said the campaign reflects a broader effort to encourage community participation in healthy activities. The theme of the cyclothon focused on “Say No to Drugs, No to Screen Addiction and Yes to Fitness & Sport.”
The cyclothon route began at RSGC and proceeded towards Duck Park on Foreshore Road, covering a distance of around 20 kilometres. Participants cycled through designated city routes as part of the awareness drive. Senior officials, including ministers and administrative representatives, were also present at the event. The programme concluded with strong participation and public engagement across different age groups.
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