ITANAGAR : Nearly 200 cyclists, athletes, youth volunteers, fitness enthusiasts and citizens participated in a cycling rally organised on Sunday to mark World Bicycle Day 2026.

The rally commenced from Akashdeep in Itanagar and concluded at the Golden Jubilee Stadium in Yupia.

Organised by the Arunachal Cycling Association under the Department of Youth Affairs in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and My Bharat, the event promoted fitness, sustainable mobility and environmental awareness.

Held under the theme “Pedal Towards a Healthier and Greener Future,” the initiative brought together cyclists and youth from across the state to advocate active lifestyles, community participation and environmental responsibility.

The programme was attended by Arunachal Pradesh Sports & Youth Affairs Minister Kento Jini, legislators Mutchu Mithi and Chau Zingnu Namchoom, Chief Secretary Manish Kumar Gupta, Health & Family Welfare Commissioner Pawan Kumar Sain, Sports & Youth Affairs Special Secretary Akshat Kaushal and other senior officials.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu lauded the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, the Arunachal Cycling Association, SAI and My Bharat for successfully organising the event and promoting the message of fitness, healthy living and sustainable transportation.

In a social media post, Khandu said World Bicycle Day serves as an important reminder of the need to adopt active lifestyles and environmentally friendly modes of transport.

“Cycling is not only a means of fitness and recreation but also a simple and effective way to reduce our carbon footprint and contribute towards a cleaner future,” he said.