NEW DELHI: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) successfully concluded its groundbreaking initiative, “The Great Indian Coastal Cyclothon” 2025, at the Swami Vivekananda Kendra in Kanyakumari.
The event, themed “Surakshit Tat, Samriddh Bharat” (Secure Coast, Prosperous India), traversed 6,553 kilometers across 11 states and Union Territories over 25 days, garnering the support of 2.5 crore Indians.
6,553 km, countless pedal strokes and one united mission of सुरक्षित तट, समृद्ध भारत!
We rode as one, but India, it was your unwavering spirit that propelled us forward. Together, we pedaled not just for our shores, but for the guardians who protect them, for the communities… pic.twitter.com/s8sC36oPYt
— CISF (@CISFHQrs) March 30, 2025
Flagged off virtually on March 7, by Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah from Rajaditya Chola Regional Training Centre, Tamil Nadu, the Cyclothon saw the participation of 125 CISF personnel, including 14 women officers. Additionally, over 1,200 individuals joined at various points, further amplifying the initiative’s outreach.
The Cyclothon’s route included significant stops at Paradip Port, Konark Sun Temple, Gateway of India (Mumbai), Vizag, Mangalore, Chennai, Kochi, and Puducherry, where grand receptions and flag-off ceremonies were organized with the support of CISF personnel and local authorities.
Strengthening Ties with Coastal Communities
A key objective of the Cyclothon was to honor and empower coastal residents as “Tat Praharis” (Coastal Sentinels). Through extensive outreach, the initiative highlighted the critical role these communities play in national security by:
- Raising awareness about security threats, including smuggling, illegal fishing, and environmental hazards.
- Educating locals about vigilance measures to prevent unauthorized intrusions.
- Fostering stronger communication between security agencies and coastal populations.
Key Achievements of the Cyclothon
Massive Public Engagement and Participation
- 30 lakh individuals actively participated in rallies, cultural programs, and awareness campaigns.
- 118 local interactions were held to discuss coastal security challenges and community concerns.
- 26 major events featured discussions, cultural performances, and engagements with regional stakeholders.
Building a Robust Coastal Security Network
The Cyclothon provided valuable insights into the unique security challenges faced by different coastal regions. The initiative’s findings will aid in crafting more targeted security strategies, ensuring a proactive approach to maritime safety.
The initiative received overwhelming endorsement from sports icons such as Neeraj Chopra, Manu Bhaker, MS Dhoni, Sunil Gavaskar, and Krishnamachari Srikkanth, and film celebrities like Rajinikanth, Mohanlal, Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty, and Manju Warrier. Political and social leaders, including Puducherry Lt. Governor Kuniyil Kailashnathan, Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida, and Padma awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik, also lent their support.
Grand Finale: A Symbol of National Unity
The concluding ceremony, graced by CISF Director General Rajwinder Singh Bhatti, took place at the Swami Vivekananda Kendra against the backdrop of Vivekananda Rock Memorial and the Thiruvalluvar Statue. The event underscored the success of the Cyclothon in fostering a spirit of collective responsibility, ensuring that India’s coastline remains secure and prosperous.
With its resounding success, the CISF Coastal Cyclothon 2025 marks a pivotal step in India’s maritime security efforts, reinforcing the importance of community engagement, awareness, and vigilance in protecting the nation’s coastal borders.
