The spirit of ‘Vande Mataram’ rolled into action as CISF launched its second ‘Coastal Cyclothon-2026’ virtually from Delhi’s iconic stadium Wednesday. Home Minister Nityanand Rai led the flag-off at 7:30 AM, heralding a patriotic pedal across 6,500 coastal km.
Spanning 25 days, teams from West Bengal’s Bakkhali and Gujarat’s Lakhpat will snake through 9 states and 2 UTs, ending in Kochi on Feb 22, 2026 – a testament to endurance and national commitment.
Elite attendees – from sports ministry secretary to DGs of ITBP, NIA, SSB – rallied at India Gate on bikes, signaling unified security resolve.
Rai invoked the song’s 150th year, crediting it for freedom fires and ongoing inspiration. He urged coastal active roles for ironclad security, celebrated CISF’s global RSO nod, and tied it to SAGAR’s secure-growth mantra.
Atmosphere soared with choral ‘Vande Mataram’ and band patriotism. CISF chief noted its role in historic remembrance, channeling unity into maritime vigilance via public involvement.
Aims: Smuggling awareness; agency-community bonds; hero honors; heritage celebration spotlighting fishermen; youth fitness drive.
Coastal villages as ‘pramukhs’. 52 adopted for year-long CSR with partners: infrastructure, recruitment rallies, sports, dialogues, Swachh Bharat, trees, culture, anti-narcotics.
50% women cyclists highlight empowerment. Events with celebs in key cities build momentum to Kochi.
This Viksit Bharat pillar builds alert, fit societies. CISF calls all to register online, follow socials for the journey.