Suresh Raina praises incredible spirit of 'Vande Mataram CISF Coastal Cyclothon'
New Delhi, Jan 29
Former India cricketer Suresh Raina extended his best wishes for the Vande Mataram CISF Cyclothon 2026, calling it a stirring symbol of discipline, dedication and determination.
The CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon-2026, a flagship national public outreach and awareness initiative, was virtually flagged off from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, here on Wednesday. The event was inaugurated by the Hon'ble Minister of State for Home Affairs, Shri Nityanand Rai, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
With the flag-off, the 25-day mega national movement formally commenced, as two CISF cycling teams simultaneously set out from Bakkhali (West Bengal) and Lakhpat (Gujarat). The teams will collectively traverse approximately 6,500 kilometres along India's eastern and western coastlines, covering nine coastal States and two Union Territories, before culminating at Kochi on 22 February 2026.
"I wish good luck to the whole CISF team. I hope the CISF marathon is going to be a lot of fun and full of enthusiasm. Please participate. All the best, " Raina said in a video shared by CISF on its X handle, drawing a powerful connection between sporting excellence and national service, he applauded CISF personnel for their relentless efforts in spreading awareness about the critical importance of India's maritime security.
"Such inspiring words from an iconic sportsperson further strengthen CISF's resolve to drive impactful initiatives in the supreme interest of the nation," CISF posted on X.
During the journey, the Cyclothon will halt at 52 coastal villages, which will be adopted by CISF for sustained, year-long engagement. In coordination with key stakeholders such as ONGC, Port Authorities and other maritime agencies, local CISF units will undertake community welfare and infrastructure development activities, supported through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
With 47 CISF units located near India's coastline, the Force will ensure continued and long-term engagement with these adopted villages. Notably, 50 percent of the participating cyclists are women, reflecting a significant step towards gender inclusivity and women empowerment in national service initiatives.
The Cyclothon will witness the participation of notable personalities from sports, culture, film industry and public figures during major events at Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru, Konark, Visakhapatnam and Chennai, before its culmination at Kochi.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Great to see CISF doing this. Maritime security is crucial for our nation, and spreading awareness through such events is smart. Suresh Raina's support adds a nice touch of sporting spirit.
6500 km is no joke! Hats off to the cyclists. Hope the CSR activities in the 52 adopted villages bring real, sustainable change and not just temporary hype.
As someone who loves cycling, I find this incredibly motivating. The coastal route must be stunning. Wishing all participants the very best for this marathon effort!
Respectfully, while the event is good, I hope the focus remains on the core message of maritime security and village development, and doesn't get lost in the celebrity appearances.
Vande Mataram! 🚴♀️ This is the spirit of New India. Discipline, dedication, and women empowerment all in one. Can't wait to see the updates from Kochi in 2026.
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