‘CISF Vande Matram Coastal Cyclothon–2026’ Virtually Flagged Off from New Delhi

New Delhi: The CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026, a flagship national public outreach and awareness initiative, was virtually flagged off at 07.30 a.m. today, from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. The event was inaugurated by the  Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, who was 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 km  along India’s eastern and western coastlines, covering nine coastal States and two Union Territories, before culminating at Kochi on 22 February 2026. Distinguished Participation and Inter-Agency Support, the flag-off ceremony was attended by several eminent dignitaries, including Dr. Pallavi Jain Govil, IAS, Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports;  Shatrujeet Kapur, IPS, Director General, ITBP;  Praveer Ranjan, IPS, Director General, CISF;  Rakesh Aggarwal, IPS, Director General, NIA;  Gaurav Dwivedi, IAS, CEO, Prasar Bharati and,  Sanjay Singhal, IPS, Director General, SSB along with other senior officers. The dignitaries also participated in a cycle rally near India Gate, symbolically extending their support to the cyclists. Their presence reflected strong inter-ministerial and inter-agency cooperation, underscoring the national importance of the initiative and conveying a unified message of vigilance, solidarity and shared national resolve.

Message from the Minister of State Nityanand Rai: Addressing the gathering on the occasion of the second edition of the Coastal Cyclothon, the  Minister stated that “the event is being organised to commemorate 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, the iconic song that inspired India’s freedom struggle and continues to guide generations in the spirit of national service.” He emphasised that “coastal security can be strengthened only through active public participation, particularly by coastal communities”. Highlighting a key institutional milestone, the Minister noted that “it is a matter of national pride that CISF has been designated as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, placing the Force at the core of India’s maritime and port security architecture”. He further underlined that the initiative aligns with the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of “SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region” for the Indian Ocean anchored in the theme of   सुरक्षित तट, समृद्ध भारत – Secure Coast, Prosperous India. with patriotic atmosphere The ceremony was marked by choral singing of “Vande Mataram” and a CISF Band performance, with rousing compositions resonating across the venue and infusing the atmosphere with pride and patriotism.

Praveer Ranjan, IPS DG’s address: “The Cyclothon is being organised as part of the commemoration of 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, the iconic song that inspired India’s freedom struggle and symbolises national unity, sacrifice and collective resolve. In this historic context, the initiative seeks to translate the spirit of Vande Mataram into contemporary action by engaging citizens in safeguarding the nation’s vital maritime frontiers.” Objectives and Thematic Focus of the Event: The CISF Coastal Cyclothon–2026 aims to: Sensitise coastal communities about threats such as smuggling of drugs, weapons, and explosives and encourage vigilance.  Strengthen partnerships between coastal communities and security agencies for a robust coastal security network.  Instil the spirit of Vande Mataram by honouring the sacrifices of freedom fighters, martyrs, and security personnel and their families.  Celebrate India’s rich maritime heritage, traditions, history, and geography, highlighting the invaluable contribution of coastal communities, especially fishermen.  Promote fitness, discipline and healthy lifestyles, particularly among youth and coastal communities. The initiative also seeks to emphasize the critical role of coastal communities— particularly fishermen—as the nation’s “Tat Praharis” (Sentinels of the Coast). Community Engagement and Village Adoption Community engagement forms a core pillar of the Cyclothon in this edition.

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. Youth Outreach, Social Awareness and Environmental Responsibility As part of sustained engagement, recruitment awareness drives, sports activities and youth interaction programmes will be conducted to encourage young citizens to participate in productive, nation-building activities.

Notably, 50 percent of the participating cyclists are women, reflecting a significant step towards gender inclusivity and women empowerment in national service initiatives. Through fitness-led public interaction, the Cyclothon seeks to inspire citizens to adopt discipline, physical fitness and a spirit of service to the nation. Major Events and Public Participation 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. Alignment with National Vision The CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026 aligns closely with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, by strengthening coastal regions, empowering communities and fostering an alert, fit and responsible citizenry. Media Appreciation and Citizen Participation The CISF expresses its sincere appreciation to the media fraternity for their presence and support at the flag-off event and looks forward to continued cooperation in ensuring sustained, responsible and nationwide coverage of this 25-day national initiative. We call upon the citizens, sister agencies, civil administration, stakeholders and especially the youth to actively support this endeavour by registering through the CISF website (www.cisf.gov.in) and by following CISF’s official social media handles for daily updates and glimpses of the Cyclothon’s journey.