Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Khadse, flagged off the rally was organized on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday

Pune: A cycle rally was organized from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Kothrud to the Dharmavir Sambhaji Maharaj statue in Deccan. The primary aim of the rally was to commemorate Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s birthday and raise awareness among Puneites about physical fitness and eco-friendly lifestyles. More than 2,500 cyclists participated in the event, promoting the ‘Pune on Pedals’ initiative while delivering a message of fitness and environmental conservation.

Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Khadse, inaugurated the rally organized by Rajya Sabha MP, Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni, by waving the green flag. Among the dignitaries present were Skydiver Padma Shri Shital Mahajan, Indian cricketer Rahul Tripathi, former corporators Jayant Bhave and Vishram Kulkarni, and others. Speaking at the event, Khadse emphasized the benefits of cycling for both physical and mental health, as well as environmental conservation.

Khadse further stated, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi has consistently promoted the ‘Fit India’ movement. Cycling plays a key role in staying fit and healthy. To instill the importance of sports in children, awareness campaigns are being conducted from village to village. The Ministry of Sports is implementing various initiatives to foster sportsmanship in children. This cycle rally initiated by Prof. Dr. Medhatai Kulkarni is commendable, and the enthusiasm of Punekars for cycling has been truly inspiring.”

The ‘Pune on Pedal’ initiative, now in its fifth year, encourages the use of bicycles due to their health benefits. Pune, known for its strong cycling culture, hosted over 2,500 cyclists in this year's rally. During the event, Khadse distributed free bicycles to underprivileged children. As Dr. Medha Kulkarni mentioned, all participants were awarded medals, certificates, and T-shirts. Shital Mahajan, Rahul Tripathi, and other attendees also encouraged Puneites to cycle more frequently, stated a press release.