News & Announcement
Cycling Event Brings National Sports Day 2025 Celebrations to a Fitting Close
Gangtok, August 31 (IPR): The three-day National Sports Day 2025 celebrations culminated today with a vibrant programme at the White Hall Complex in Gangtok, organised by the Sports and Youth Affairs Department.
The concluding day featured the “Sunday on Cycle” initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, adding both energy and purpose to the occasion.
The Chief Guest, Chairperson of the State Sports Development Board, Mr Rinzing W Chopel, was accorded a traditional welcome with khadas, followed by a solemn tribute to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and the collective recitation of the Fit India Pledge.
In his address, the Chairperson underlined that the true essence of sports lies not in the pursuit of medals and accolades alone, but in its enduring capacity to shape character, discipline, and unity. He remarked that sports must be embraced as a way of life, nurturing healthier, more resilient, and harmonious communities, while also commending the Department for organising an event that reflects a shared commitment to building a fitter, stronger, and more progressive society.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Ms Yangchen D Tamang, extended her greetings to all present and described cycling as one of the simplest yet most effective means of promoting fitness and sustainability.
She drew attention to the example set by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, who often pedals to Parliament and has recently launched the nationwide “Sunday on Cycle” initiative.
She emphasised that such practices embody the larger message of healthy living and called upon everyone to carry forward the enthusiasm of the past three days by making fitness an integral part of daily life.
The programme included a basic cycling demonstration by national-level cyclist Mr Anuj Sherpa, who was joined by the youngest participant of the day, Mr Chopel Bhutia.
The highlight of the morning was the flag-off of a cycling rally, where participants rode through the scenic streets of Gangtok, their wheels symbolising progress, sustainability, and community spirit.
A cheerful prize distribution ceremony further marked the occasion, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Guest of Honour was President of the Cycling Association of Sikkim, Mr Tashi Wangyal. Also in attendance were Chief Engineer Ms Milan Pradhan, Additional Director of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department Dr R B Biswakarma, along with senior officials of the Department, the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence, and the State Sports Academy.
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Joint Director (Coaching) Mr Jigme Y Lepcha, while Assistant Director Mr Bhanu Bhakta Chapagai, conducted the proceedings as Master of Ceremony.
The concluding day featured the “Sunday on Cycle” initiative of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India, adding both energy and purpose to the occasion.
The Chief Guest, Chairperson of the State Sports Development Board, Mr Rinzing W Chopel, was accorded a traditional welcome with khadas, followed by a solemn tribute to hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand and the collective recitation of the Fit India Pledge.
In his address, the Chairperson underlined that the true essence of sports lies not in the pursuit of medals and accolades alone, but in its enduring capacity to shape character, discipline, and unity. He remarked that sports must be embraced as a way of life, nurturing healthier, more resilient, and harmonious communities, while also commending the Department for organising an event that reflects a shared commitment to building a fitter, stronger, and more progressive society.
Earlier, in her welcome address, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department, Ms Yangchen D Tamang, extended her greetings to all present and described cycling as one of the simplest yet most effective means of promoting fitness and sustainability.
She drew attention to the example set by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, who often pedals to Parliament and has recently launched the nationwide “Sunday on Cycle” initiative.
She emphasised that such practices embody the larger message of healthy living and called upon everyone to carry forward the enthusiasm of the past three days by making fitness an integral part of daily life.
The programme included a basic cycling demonstration by national-level cyclist Mr Anuj Sherpa, who was joined by the youngest participant of the day, Mr Chopel Bhutia.
The highlight of the morning was the flag-off of a cycling rally, where participants rode through the scenic streets of Gangtok, their wheels symbolising progress, sustainability, and community spirit.
A cheerful prize distribution ceremony further marked the occasion, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Guest of Honour was President of the Cycling Association of Sikkim, Mr Tashi Wangyal. Also in attendance were Chief Engineer Ms Milan Pradhan, Additional Director of the Sports and Youth Affairs Department Dr R B Biswakarma, along with senior officials of the Department, the Khelo India State Centre of Excellence, and the State Sports Academy.
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by Joint Director (Coaching) Mr Jigme Y Lepcha, while Assistant Director Mr Bhanu Bhakta Chapagai, conducted the proceedings as Master of Ceremony.