Kolkata| 19th January 2026:
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is set to launch the second edition of the Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026, A nationwide initiative aimed at strengthening coastal security, promoting national unity, and building stronger ties with coastal communities.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Shri Nityanand Rai will virtually flag off the Cyclothon on January 28th-2026 from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi. The event will also begin simultaneously from Lakhpat Fort, Gujarat (Western Coast) and Bakkhali, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal (Eastern Coast).
The 25-day, 6,553-kilometre cycling expedition will cover India’s entire mainland coastline and conclude in Kochi, Kerala on 22 February 2026. The campaign carries the theme “Surakshit Tat, Samridh Bharat” (Secure Coasts, Prosperous India).
A total of 130 CISF personnel, including 65 women cyclists, will participate in the Cyclothon after undergoing rigorous training in endurance, safety, nutrition, and cycling techniques.
During the journey, CISF teams will halt overnight at more than 50 coastal villages and conduct awareness programmes on drug abuse, human trafficking, cleanliness, fitness, and recruitment. Cultural events, plantation drives, and community interactions with fishermen and local residents will also be organised.
CISF has emphasised that the initiative is not only about security but also about supporting coastal people. Through outreach and proposed CSR activities, the force aims to help improve infrastructure, basic facilities, and livelihood support in selected coastal areas.
Officials said that local youth, students, NCC cadets, and community members will be encouraged to participate in events and join awareness programmes, making the Cyclothon a platform for public participation in national security and community welfare.
Major events will take place in Haldia, Konark, Vizag, Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru, Chennai, and finally Kochi.
CISF, which is responsible for security at all 12 major ports of India, believes that community cooperation is key to protecting the nation’s coastline and ensuring a safer, stronger, and more prosperous India.
