NCC Cyclothon 2026 commemorates 79 years of Independence
New Delhi, Aug 2
The National Cadet Corps organised Cyclothon 2026 on Sunday in Delhi to commemorate 79 years of India's Independence and inspire the youth to embrace fitness, environmental responsibility and sustainable living, an official said.
The Cyclothon was flagged off by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, in the presence of Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, boxer M.C. Mary Kom and renowned tennis player Leander Paes.
The event aimed to reinforce the core values of patriotism, discipline, unity, and national service that form the foundation of the NCC, a statement issued by the Defence Ministry said.
NCC Director General, Lieutenant General Virendra Vats, led the group of 79 NCC cadets in a symbolic 79 km ride to mark 79 years of India's Independence.
The event commenced from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium and concluded at the same venue after successfully covering the designated route through prominent landmarks of the national capital, the statement said.
Organised under the theme "Clean India, Green India, Fit India," the Cyclothon reaffirmed NCC's commitment to national missions such as TB Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat, Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam, and Har Ghar Tiranga.
The event encouraged participants and the public to adopt cycling as an eco-friendly and sustainable mode of transport while promoting environmental conservation, reducing carbon emissions, and embracing healthy lifestyles, the statement added.
Apart from being a sporting event, NCC Cyclothon 2026 served as a platform to create awareness about physical fitness, environmental stewardship, road safety, and responsible citizenship.
The initiative inspired the youth to become ambassadors of positive social change by embracing discipline, teamwork, resilience, and community service, thereby contributing to the vision of a stronger, healthier, and greener India, the statement said.
Established in 1948 with an initial strength of 20,000 cadets, NCC has grown into the world's largest uniformed youth organisation with more than 20 lakh cadets.
The organisation has witnessed an increase of six lakh cadets between 2014 and 2025 and is currently present in more than 750 districts across the country.
— IANS
Reader Comments
This is exactly what we need - combining fitness with patriotism. The "Clean India, Green India, Fit India" theme is so relevant today. But I wish such events were held in smaller cities too, not just Delhi. Our tier-2 cities need this exposure as well.
Seeing Mary Kom and Leander Paes at the flag-off adds so much inspiration for young athletes. NCC has grown from 20,000 to 20 lakh cadets - that's incredible growth! This is how we build a stronger, disciplined youth. Jai Hind! 🙏
Wonderful concept, but I have to point out a small concern - with Delhi's air quality, encouraging cycling in such heavy traffic might be risky for the participants. Hope proper safety measures and health protocols were in place. Still, appreciate the effort for a greener India! 🌱
As an ex-NCC cadet, this makes me nostalgic! NCC taught me discipline and leadership. The initiative to promote cycling as sustainable transport is brilliant. But one suggestion - let's also focus on building cycling infrastructure in our cities, otherwise such events remain symbolic only.
The theme covering TB Mukt Bharat, Swachh Bharat, and Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam shows how NCC is evolving beyond just military training. These are the values our youth need today. Kudos to all 79 cadets who rode 79 km! You all are true ambassadors of change. 🌟
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