Fit India Movement: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Fit India Movement on Thursday, saying the initiative was the need of the hour and will take the country towards a healthier future.
At a colorful ceremony, which included a presentation of India’s indigenous martial art forms, dances and sports, Modi said technology has contributed to a sedentary lifestyle. “Fitness has always been an integral part of our culture. But there is indifference towards fitness issues now. A few decades back, a normal person would walk 8-10 km in a day, do cycling or run,” Modi said during the event. “But with technology, physical activity has reduced. We walk less now and the same technology tells us that we are not walking enough.”
Fit India Movement: HIGHLIGHTS
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday launch a nation-wide Fit India Movement
- ‘Fitness has always been an integral part of our culture. But there is indifference towards fitness issues now’
- ‘With technology, physical activity has reduced. We walk less now and the same technology tells us that we are not walking enough’
- The prime minister is expected to address the people and will also administer a fitness pledge
- The campaign aims to encourage people to inculcate physical activity and sports in their everyday lives
The launch was also attended by sports minister Kiren Rijiju and this year’s national sports awards winners, among others. “We will take this movement to new heights with the cooperation of my fellow Indians. I am so glad that this movement is being launched on the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, our hockey wizard,” Rijiju said at the launch.
At the event, the prime minister is expected to address the people and will also administer a fitness pledge. The entry for the event will be given based on PIB (Press Information Bureau) accreditation card only.
In his latest Mann Ki Baat address, PM Modi had asked people to take part in ‘Fit India Movement’ which is being organised to celebrate the ‘National Sports Day’ on August 29.
The nation-wide campaign aims to encourage people to inculcate physical activity and sports in their everyday lives, a statement said.
The University Grant Commission has issued a letter to inform the universities to prepare for Fit India Movement to be held on August 29.
The Prime Minister congratulated the winners of the national sports awards and lauded India’s sporting achievements. “Be it boxing, badminton, tennis or any sport, our athletes are giving new wings to our aspirations. Their medals are not just a result of their hard work but also a reflection of a new India’s confidence,” he said.
