Empowering women is empowering society: Mansukh Mandaviya on International Women's Day
Kolkata, March 8
Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya participated in the Fit India Pink Cyclothon in Kolkata today to celebrate International Women's Day, promoting women's fitness and cycling, according to a release.
The nationwide Sunday on Cycle initiative continued to draw enthusiastic participation from citizens, reinforcing the message of fitness, sustainability, and community engagement.
Addressing participants, the Minister encouraged people to adopt cycling as a simple yet impactful way to maintain a healthy lifestyle while contributing to a cleaner environment. He noted that such initiatives help cultivate a culture of fitness and collective responsibility among citizens.
Highlighting the importance of women's participation in sports and public life, Mandaviya emphasised that empowering women is empowering society. "When women are empowered, families and society prosper, contributing directly to nation-building," he asserted. The Minister called for greater encouragement and opportunities for women and girls in sports and fitness activities, noting that inclusive participation strengthens communities and advances the nation's overall progress.
Bombayla Devi Laishram, Olympian and Arjuna Awardee; Avinash Kumar Gupta, Chief Commissioner, Bharat Scouts, Kolkata; Piyali Basak, Mount Everest Summiteer; Adrija Sarkhel, Goalkeeper, Indian Women's Football Team and Sushmita Singha Roy - Olympian also participated in the Cyclothon.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a participant from the Scouts, it was a fantastic atmosphere. Seeing Olympians and young athletes cycling alongside citizens truly embodied the spirit of community and fitness for all. Jai Hind!
While the sentiment is perfect, I hope this translates into more consistent funding and infrastructure for women's sports at the grassroots level. One event is great, but sustained support is what truly empowers.
Absolutely correct, sir. When my sister started cycling for fitness, it changed her confidence completely. Now she's even teaching other women in our colony. Small steps lead to big changes. 💪
Love the focus on fitness and environment together! But we also need safer cycling tracks, especially for women in the evenings. Empowerment needs safe public spaces as a foundation.
Great initiative. Seeing Adrija Sarkhel from the football team there is inspiring for young girls. We need more visibility for our women athletes beyond just cricket. They are real role models.
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