SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday flagged off the grand Cyclothon 2026 in Srinagar on the occasion of World Bicycle Day, underscoring the importance of fitness awareness, youth engagement and tourism promotion in the Union Territory.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from cyclists, fitness enthusiasts and sports lovers, with the administration highlighting cycling as an effective means of promoting healthy lifestyles and sustainable mobility.
Speaking on the occasion, Nasir Aslam Wani said the government is making sustained efforts to expand sports-related activities across Jammu and Kashmir and encourage greater participation among the youth.
“This is a very good initiative. We’re trying to organise sports activities in Kashmir, like this. Before this, there was the golf event and the marathon. Now, we are doing the cyclothon. There will be the Jammu cyclothon and the Kashmir cyclothon. Through these things, we’re trying to attract young people towards sports activities. For us, this is also a tourism promotion,” Wani told reporters.
The cyclothon forms part of the administration’s broader strategy to promote sports culture, encourage fitness and showcase Jammu and Kashmir as a destination for sporting events and tourism.
Officials said such events not only provide a platform for young athletes and cycling enthusiasts but also help strengthen the region’s image as a hub for adventure, recreation and wellness tourism.
