Highlights: 2.5 crore Indians support the 6,553 kms long Cyclothon spread over 11 states/UTs in 25 days.
KANYAKUMARI, MARCH 31, 2025: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) proudly announces the triumphant conclusion of its Mega Event – “The Great Indian Coastal Cyclothon” 2025, a landmark initiative themed “Surakshit Tat, Samriddh Bharat” (Secure Coast, Prosperous India). Director General, CISF was the chief guest at the final function held at Kanyakumari where a huge crowd of locals cheered the CISF cyclists. The grand function was held at Vivekanand Rock Memorial and statue of Tamil Saint and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. The Cyclothon marks the beginning of a partnership with coastal communities in securing India’s long coastline.
The Cyclothon was flagged off virtually by Union Minister of Home and Cooperation Amit Shah, on March 7th, 2025, from the Rajaditya Cholan CISF Regional Training Centre, Thakkolam, Ranipet District, Tamil Nadu. A total of 125 dedicated CISF cyclists, including 14 women personnel, undertook the arduous journey, covering the 6,553km distance across 11 States/Union Territories in 25 days. Over 1,200 participants joined the Cyclothon at various stages, highlighting the strong public support for the initiative. The Cyclothon was supported by CISF personnel across various units along the coast and other state/central government agencies. Grand receptions and flag-off ceremonies were organized at major coastal cities and significant landmarks, including Paradip Port, Konark Sun Temple, Gateway of India (Mumbai), Vishakhapatnam, Mangalore, Chennai, Kochi, and Puducherry, further amplifying the Cyclothon’s message.
A central tenet of this endeavour was to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of coastal residents as “Tat Praharis” (Sentinels of the coast). The initiative sought to empower these communities, recognizing their vital role as the eyes and ears of security forces in safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.
The Cyclothon made the coastal communities aware of the security threats confronting India’s coastline, including the illicit activities of smuggling (encompassing drugs, weapons, and explosives), the necessity of vigilance against intrusion, and the critical importance of environmental conservation in these ecologically sensitive zones.
The Cyclothon has further strengthened communication and collaboration between the CISF, other security agencies, and coastal communities. These interactions have fostered a spirit of partnership and shared responsibility, crucial for building a robust and resilient coastal security framework.
Beyond its security focus, the Cyclothon also aimed to connect inland communities with India’s captivating coast. It was a chance to highlight the lively coastal communities, their diverse flora and fauna and the unique cultural traditions that make up India’s coastal identity.
Key Highlights of the Great Indian Coastal Cyclothon- A Testament to Collective Effort of CISF and coastal communities.
Partnership with coastal communities: The Cyclothon engaged with fifty-eight coastal communities of 11 coastal states/UTs namely:
| West coast:~31
1. Gujarat: Kharva, Macchi, Ahir, Vagher 2. Maharashtra: Koli, Gabit, Bhoi, Agri, Kharvi 3. Goa: Kharvi, Bhandari, Ramponkars, Maindra Koli, Dalji 4. Karnataka: Mogaveera, Koraga, Billava, Ambika, Ga, Harikanthra, Marakalu, Bovi 5. Kerala: Mukkuvar, Mappila, Arayar, Valan, Dheevara, Paravan, Paliyan, Bojaka, Pooislan |
East coast:~27
1. West Bengal: Kaibarta, Bagdi, Bansphor, Malo, Jalia, Tiyar, Dhibara, Namasudra 2. Odisha: Kaibarta, Mahali, Nolia, Rajbanshi 3. Andhra Pradesh: Vada Balija, Yanadis, Bestha, Palli, Kandra, Kapu, Kevita, Pattapu 4. Tamil Nadu: Paravar, Nattar, Kallar, Pattinavar, Kariyar, Vallaiyar, Kadaiyar
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Unprecedented Public Engagement: The Cyclothon achieved a truly remarkable level of public engagement, demonstrating its widespread appeal and the resonance of its message. Over thirty lakh people actively participated in rallies, events, and awareness campaigns organized along the route, while the Cyclothon’s message reached an astoundingly large audience of over 2.5 crore people through physical interactions as well as various online and social media platforms.
Endorsement by Eminent Personalities: The Cyclothon garnered significant attention and support from a wide array of eminent personalities of various fields, lending further credence to its importance.
Dignitaries such as Puducherry Lt Governor Honble Sh Kuniyil Kailashnathan, Puducherry Chief Minister Sh N. Rangaswamy, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida, Arjuna Awardee Pramod Bhagat, Indian Hockey Veteran Mir Ranjan Negi, Raja Shri Shivendra Narayan Bhanj Deo (King of Kanishka), Padma Shri Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, Public representatives graced the events and lent their support.
Sports legends namely Neeraj Chopra, Manu Bhaker, MS Dhoni, Sunil Gavaskar, Krishnamachari Srikkanth supported the event.
Film stars namely Rajinikanth, Mohanlal, Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, Jackie Shroff, Manju Warrier, and others, extended their support, inspiring countless individuals to join the cause of coastal security.
Extensive Participation and Coverage: The Cyclothon’s journey was marked by significant events and interactions, including 26 major events and 118 local interactions, where people turned out in significant numbers and showered their warmth and support. Ideas and views were exchanged through discussion centred around coastal security and the challenges of coastal life. Various cultural events were organised with the help of local participation, which showcased the region’s unique songs, dances, martial arts, traditional attire, and cultural practices.
Valuable Insights for Coastal Security: The event has provided invaluable insights into the specific challenges and vulnerabilities faced by different coastal regions which will be a source of guidance in strengthening coastal security.
