Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched a nation-wide campaign named ‘the Fit India Movement’ on Thursday.. He launched the fitness movement at a special programme at the Indira Gandhi Stadium Complex in New Delhi saying the initiative was the need of the hour and will take the country towards a healthier future.
PM Modi had earlier in his ‘Mann ki Baat’ address asked people to take part in the ‘Fit India Movement’ — organised to celebrate the National Sports Day.
At a vibrant 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.”
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.
What is the aim of Fit India Movement
The countrywide campaign aims to persuade people to inculcate physical activity and sports in their everyday lives, a statement said.
UGC has issued a letter to inform the universities to prepare for the Fit India Movement.
The 28-member committee, under the chairmanship of sports minister Kiren Rijiju, comprising government officials, members of Indian Olympic Association (IOA), national sports federations, private bodies and fitness promoters was also formed to advise the government on the Fit India Movement.
