The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports will organise two nationwide cycling expeditions titled Iron Wheels of Unity from 31st of this month to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The Kashmir to Kanyakumari cycling expedition will begin in Jammu and Kashmir on 31st October and will culminate in Tamil Nadu on 16th November. The Ministry said, the cycling expedition will travel through the States of Punjab, Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka, culminating in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. It also said that a total of 150 riders will be taking part in this initiative. Another expedition Pedal to Plant will start from Arunachal Pradesh and culminate in Gujarat on 31st December.  Along the route, the cyclists will be planting one lakh saplings and conduct climate and fitness awareness sessions across schools and colleges.

Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said, this expedition is being organised as a tribute to freedom fighter Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He said, this initiative aims to amplify the Prime Minister’s vision of Fit India and create awareness about adopting an active lifestyle.