The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) on Monday proudly announced 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 7th, 2025, 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 kilometres 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 Minister of Home and Cooperation Amit Shah, on March 7th, 2025, from Rajaditya Chola Regional Training Centre, Thakkolam, Ranipet District, Tamil Nadu, setting the stage for this ambitious endeavour. The Cyclothon was supported on the ground from CISF personnel across various units, along the coast and other State/Central Government agencies. Grand receptions and flag-off ceremonies were organised 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, recognising 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, the necessity of vigilance against intrusion and the critical importance of environmental conservation in these ecologically sensitive zones.
The Cyclothon 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. Beyond its security focus, the Cyclothon also aimed to connect inland communities with India’s captivating coast. It was a chance to highlight the lively coastal communities, their diverse flora and fauna and the unique cultural traditions that make up India’s coastal identity. 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.
