CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon 2026 Receives Rousing Welcome at Paradip Port
Paradip:
Port Wings News Network:
The CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon 2026, an initiative aimed at promoting coastal security, environmental awareness, and national integration, received a rousing welcome at Paradip Port, Odisha, on 1 February 2026.
The event marked a significant milestone in the 26-day-long cyclothon being organized as part of the commemoration of 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, which will conclude on 22 February 2026.
The East Coast leg of the Cyclothon, flagged off from Bakkhali Beach, West Bengal, comprises 65 cyclists with 50 percent women, and is traversing through West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, before culminating at Cochin, Kerala. As the expedition moves southward, it continues to receive enthusiastic support from local communities, officials, and security agencies.
During their halt at Paradip, the cyclists engaged with fishermen, local youth, and industry representatives to spread awareness on coastal vigilance, national security, fitness, discipline, and healthy lifestyles, particularly among coastal communities.
On the morning of 2 February, while proceeding towards Konark, the East Coast Team was accorded a grand send-off from Paradip Beach.
P. L. Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority (PPA), graced the occasion as Chief Guest and flagged off the onward journey of the cyclists. The event was further graced by distinguished Guests of Honour Sanjay Negi, DIG, Indian Coast Guard; A.K Bose, Advisor, Traffic, PPA, Palanisamy Velusamy, Unit Head, PPL.
The programme featured vibrant cultural and operational displays, including an Odissi dance performance by Paramjyoti Kala Kshetra and a Vande Mataram song by students of Saraswati Shishu Vidya Mandir. The performances enthralled residents of the Port Township who gathered in large numbers to honour the cyclists and their mission. The programme also featured traditional Odia and Sambalpuri dance performances by children of CISF personnel, including an Odissi dance presentation, which added cultural vibrancy to the event.
Addressing the gathering, P. L. Haranadh said it was an honour to welcome the CISF Vande Mataram Cyclothon team at Paradip Port and appreciated the courage, commitment, and significant participation of women cyclists. He described the Cyclothon as an important initiative for creating awareness on coastal security and environmental protection, and commended the CISF for its vital role in ensuring discipline, security, and smooth port operations.
Speaking on the occasion, Sanat Kumar Patel, Commandant, CISF, said that the Vande Mataram CISF Cyclothon 2026 was flagged off on 28 January 2026, by the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Nityanand Rai, and will conclude on 22 February 2026, at Kochi, Kerala.
He stated that the expedition is being conducted simultaneously along the eastern and western coastlines, with two teams covering 11 coastal states and touching major ports, industrial hubs, and strategic maritime installations.
He added that the Cyclothon aims to engage coastal communities and create awareness on coastal vigilance, national security, education, fitness, and opportunities in uniformed services, while also encouraging civilian participation both physically and virtually.
On the occasion, Sanat Kumar Patel, Commandant, CISF Unit, PPA—an accomplished marathon runner who has completed over a dozen full marathons and numerous half marathons—was felicitated by P. L. Haranadh for his exceptional achievements, exemplary grit, unwavering commitment and dedicated service. The Chairman also appreciated the Commandant for his efforts in inspiring the youth towards fitness, dedication, and discipline.
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