New Delhi witnessed a momentous virtual launch of the Central Industrial Security Force’s (CISF) flagship national outreach initiative, ‘Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon-2026’, on Wednesday morning at 7:30 AM from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium. Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai graced the occasion as the chief guest, flagging off the event with a symbolic green flag.
This marked the official kickoff of a grand 25-day national campaign. Two CISF cycling teams simultaneously departed from Bakkhali in West Bengal and Lakhpat in Gujarat. These teams will cover nearly 6,500 kilometers along India’s eastern and western coastlines, traversing 9 coastal states and 2 union territories, before culminating in Kochi on February 22, 2026.
The launch ceremony drew an array of distinguished guests, including Dr. Pallavi Jain Govil, IAS, Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports; Shatrujeet Kapoor, IPS, Director General of ITBP; Praveer Ranjan, IPS, Director General of CISF; Rakesh Agarwal, IPS, Director General of NIA; Gaurav Dwivedi, IAS, CEO of Prasar Bharati; and Sanjay Singhal, IPS, Director General of SSB, among other senior officials.
These luminaries also participated in a brief cycle rally near India Gate, symbolizing strong support for the cyclothon. Their presence underscored the robust collaboration between ministries and security agencies, highlighting the initiative’s national significance, unity, vigilance, and shared resolve.
Addressing the gathering on the second edition of the coastal cyclothon, the Minister emphasized that the event commemorates the 150th anniversary of ‘Vande Mataram’, the immortal song that inspired India’s freedom struggle and continues to guide generations in national service. He stressed that robust coastal security is achievable only through active citizen participation, especially from coastal communities.
The Minister highlighted a proud milestone: CISF’s recognition as a Recognized Security Organization (RSO) under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, positioning it at the heart of India’s maritime and port security framework.
He aligned the initiative with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s SAGAR vision – Security and Growth for All in the Region – rooted in the ethos of ‘Secure Shores, Prosperous India’.
The event featured a collective rendition of ‘Vande Mataram’ and patriotic tunes by the CISF band, enveloping the atmosphere in national pride. CISF Director General Praveer Ranjan stated, “Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon-2026 is a key part of the historic 150-year commemoration of Vande Mataram, symbolizing national unity, sacrifice, and collective resolve. This initiative translates that spirit into practical action for today’s needs, engaging citizens in safeguarding our vital maritime borders.”
The cyclothon’s objectives include raising awareness among coastal communities about threats like drug, arms, and explosives smuggling; fostering partnerships between communities and security forces; honoring freedom fighters, martyrs, and security personnel; celebrating India’s maritime heritage and the invaluable contributions of fishermen; and promoting fitness, discipline, and healthy lifestyles among youth and coastal residents.
It positions coastal communities, particularly fishermen, as ‘coast guards’ of the nation. Community engagement forms a cornerstone, with stops at 52 coastal villages adopted by CISF for sustained one-year involvement. Through partnerships with ONGC, port authorities, and others, local CISF units will execute CSR activities for community welfare and infrastructure.
These 47 coastal CISF units will ensure long-term engagement via recruitment drives, sports events, youth dialogues, Swachh Bharat campaigns, tree plantation, cultural programs, and anti-smuggling awareness.
Youth participation and women’s empowerment are focal points, with 50% of cyclists being women – a significant step toward gender inclusivity in national service. The cyclothon inspires discipline, fitness, and patriotism.
Major events in Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru, Konark, Visakhapatnam, and Chennai will feature celebrities from sports, culture, film, and public life, leading to the grand finale in Kochi.
Aligned with Viksit Bharat @2047, this initiative empowers coastal regions, strengthens communities, and builds a vigilant, healthy, responsible citizenry. CISF urges citizens, agencies, and youth to join via website registration and social media updates.
