CISF concludes the first of a kind 'Great Indian Coastal Cyclothon' for coastal security

New Delhi, March 31

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). 

This first ever such pan India event by a Security Force, which commenced on March 7 and culminated at the iconic Swami Vivekananda Kendra in Kanyakumari, has traversed the length and breadth of India's coastline, covering a long 6,553 kilometers and leaving an indelible mark on people. 

125 dedicated CISF cyclists, including 14 women personnel, undertook the arduous journey, covering the 6,553 km distance across 11 states and Union Territories in 25 days. Furthermore, over 1,200 participants joined the Cyclothon at various stages, highlighting the strong public support for the initiative. 

The cyclothon was virtually flagged off by union home minister Amit Shah, on March 7 from Rajaditya Chola Regional Training Centre, Thakkolam, Ranipet District, Tamil Nadu, setting the stage for this ambitious endeavor. The Cyclothon was supported on the ground from CISF personnel across various units, along the coast and other State/Central Govt. 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), Vizag, Mangalore, and 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 local residents as "Tat Praharis" (Coastal Sentinels). 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 aimed to educate the Coastal Communities regarding the diverse 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, said CISF. 

The officials added that it has facilitated 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.

Some highlights of the cyclothon

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 centered 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.

Partnership with Coastal Communities: The Cyclothon has been instrumental in significantly raising awareness about the multifaceted challenges of coastal security and the paramount importance of active community participation in addressing these challenges. By engaging directly with coastal communities, the CISF has fostered a deeper understanding of their concerns and perspectives, paving the way for more effective and community-centric security strategies based on actual conditions of the ground zero.

Unprecedented Public Engagement: The Cyclothon achieved a truly remarkable level of public engagement, demonstrating its widespread appeal and the resonance of its message. Over 30 lakh individuals actively participated in rallies, events, and awareness campaigns organized along the route, while the Cyclothon's message reached an astoundingly large audience of about 2.5 crore people through physical interactions as well as various online and social media platforms.

Valuable Insights for Future: The event has provided invaluable insights into the specific challenges and vulnerabilities faced by different coastal regions. The dynamic record-keeping of issues and challenges faced by coastal communities, as directed by the Hon’ble Minister of Home and Cooperation, will contribute to the development of more targeted and effective security strategies and initiatives.

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. Notable sports figures such as Neeraj Chopra, Manu Bhaker. M S Dhoni, Sunil Gavaskar, Krishnamachari Srikant and film stars like Rajnikant, Mohanlal, Akshay Kumar, Sunil Shetty, Manju Warrior, and others, extended their support, inspiring countless individuals to join the cause of coastal security. Dignitaries such as Hon’ble Lt Governor  Sh Kuniyil Kailashnathan of  Puducherry Chief Minister Sh N. Rangaswami, Puducherry Hon’ble Speaker Sh Embalam R. Selvam, Puducherry,  Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida, Arjuna Awardee Pramod Bhagat, Indian Hockey Veteran Mir Ranjan Negi, Raja Shivendra Narayan Bhanjadeo (King of Kanishka), Padma Shri Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, Public representatives, Senior Government Officials, etc, also graced the events and lent their support.

Rajwinder Singh Bhatti, Director General CISF was the Chief Guest on the occasion of the grand finale at Kanyakumari, held at the Swami Vivekananda Kendra, under the spiritually awakening shadow of Vivekanand Rock Memorial and Tamil Saint and philosopher Thiruvalluvar, served as a powerful symbol of national unity and collective resolve. This momentous occasion not only marked the successful completion of the Cyclothon but also signified the beginning of a new era of enhanced vigilance and collaboration in safeguarding India's coasts and ensuring a secure and prosperous future for the nation.