Cyclothon re-emphasised coastal heritage and security responsibility
Adoption of 52 coastal villages by the cyclothon is commendable
The cyclothon proves that women excel with determination in every field
Union Minister attends the “Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026” in Kochi, Kerala
KOCHI, KERALA, FEBRUARY 22, 2026: A foot march might be manageable, and traveling by bus is undoubtedly easier. But the national cycling expedition conducted by the CISF under the banner “Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026” demanded extraordinary stamina, determination, and resilience, said Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar. He praised the CISF teams for completing the gruelling 6,553-kilometre journey, overcoming multiple challenges and hardships before reaching their destination. He described the accomplishment as a strong testament to courage and a spirit of dedicated public service.
He noted that India’s coastline has, for thousands of years, been a center of civilization, trade, and cultural exchange. From the ancient ports of Gujarat to the beaches of Goa, and from the fishing villages of Kerala to the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, India’s coastline narrates the story of the nation’s rich maritime heritage. Through this cyclothon, not only was due respect paid to that heritage, but the responsibility to protect it was also strongly reaffirmed.
Union Minister Bandi Sanjay participated as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the “Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026” held in Kochi, Kerala. CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan; Additional Director Generals Padmakar S. Ranpise, Sudhir Kumar, and Vijay Prakash; IGs S. R. Saravanan and Jose Mohan; Malayalam actor Jayasurya; Arjuna Awardee I. M. Vijayan; Indian badminton coach Joy T. Antony; and Malayalam actress Prayaga Martin, among others, attended the event.
On the occasion, the Minister mentioned that two CISF teams—one starting from the eastern coast and the other from the western coast—travelled across the coastal regions and finally converged in Kochi, Kerala. He said this convergence symbolises the unity and integrity of the nation. He appreciated the teams for overcoming diverse geographical challenges, covering vast distances, and directly engaging with the public to strengthen community bonds. He emphasized that the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026 was not merely a journey across India’s vast coastline but a significant initiative that connected the hearts of the people of the country.
He stated that in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of village empowerment, the cyclothon adopted 52 coastal villages, thereby placing coastal communities at the center of national security and the development process. He said that strong borders and secure coastlines are not ensured by security forces alone, but by aware, empowered, and vigilant citizens. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi and the guidance of Home Minister Amit Shah, the Government of India has entrusted the CISF with key responsibilities as a recognised security organisation under international shipping and port security regulations. He praised the cyclothon as a powerful symbol of that commitment.
The Union Minister said that the cyclothon was not merely a display of physical endurance, but also a strong symbol of women’s empowerment. Out of the 130 CISF cyclists who participated, 65—nearly 50 percent—were women, which he described as remarkable. By successfully completing the challenging 6,553-kilometer coastal expedition, they demonstrated that women can stand strong in every field. He added that the cyclothon would not only serve as an inspiration to all, but would also strengthen bonds with the public and continue initiatives that enhance the nation’s strength. He expressed hope that the CISF “Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon” would become a lasting tradition—celebrating India’s coastal pride, honoring its protectors, and uniting the entire nation in the spirit of service and pa
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