Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya led the 94th edition of Fit India Sundays on Cycle in Varanasi, which gathered over 500 cyclists and more than 1,000 total participants to promote the theme 'Nasha Mukt Yuva for Viksit Bharat' (Drug-Free Youth for Developed India). The event commenced at 6:00 AM at Namo Ghat with a meditation session conducted by Dr. Nivedita Shreyans, Director of Youth Affairs at Heartfulness Institute, highlighting the integration of mental and physical well-being. This was followed by cultural components including a Kathak performance and Zumba session to promote holistic wellness through movement and community participation.
Dr. Mandaviya addressed the gathering, urging youth to incorporate fitness into daily routines and make healthy lifestyle choices. The minister and all participants collectively took the Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge, committing to combat substance abuse and build a drug-free generation. Following the address, Dr. Mandaviya led a 5.5-kilometer cycle rally from Namo Ghat to Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, physically carrying the anti-drug message through the streets of Varanasi.
The event featured felicitation of Indian medalists from the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, including Prachi Chaudhary (bronze medalist in women's 400m), Parul Chaudhary (double bronze medalist in women's 3000m steeplechase and 5000m), Jay Kumar (silver medalist in mixed 4x400m relay and bronze medalist in men's 4x400m relay), and Raj Kumar Pal (gold medalist as part of the Indian men's hockey team). Their presence served to inspire young participants through examples of athletic discipline, perseverance, and commitment. The event combined cycling, cultural expression, meditation, and the anti-drug pledge to promote fitness as a comprehensive lifestyle choice that encompasses physical activity, mental well-being, and responsible decision-making for youth development.