Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse on Thursday held a comprehensive review meeting with Maninder Pal Singh, Secretary General of the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), and senior officials to discuss the roadmap for strengthening India's cycling ecosystem. The discussions focused on building a structured pathway for cyclists, from grassroots talent identification to high-performance training and international exposure.
Focus on grassroots and high-performance training
According to a press release, the meeting emphasised creating greater grassroots participation, enhancing athlete development, and increasing international competitiveness. Key areas included sports science integration, coaching excellence, and a seamless pathway for cyclists to progress from local competitions to global platforms.
International recognition and UCI engagement
India's expanding engagement with the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) was reviewed. The UCI Annual Report 2026 has accorded special recognition to India for its growing contribution to global cycling. Amina Lanaya, Director General of UCI, highlighted the success of the Pune Grand Tour 2025 and appreciated India's sporting spirit and the efforts of the Cycling Federation of India. The Minister noted that such recognition reflects India's rising stature on the global cycling map.
Pune Grand Tour and athlete milestones
The upcoming edition of the Pune Grand Tour was discussed as a key event elevating India's international cycling calendar. The Minister observed that such competitions provide Indian cyclists valuable exposure and showcase India's capability to host global events. Additionally, following the induction of Ms. Harshita Jakhar as the first Indian cyclist into the UCI World Cycling Centre Elite Training Programme, five elite sprinters—Ronaldo Singh, Esow Alban, Rojit Singh, David Beckham Elkatohchoongo, and James Singh—along with four support staff members have been inducted into the UCI World Cycling Centre programme in Aigle, Switzerland.
Khelo India ASMITA Cycling City League
The progress of the Khelo India ASMITA Cycling City League was reviewed. The initiative has emerged as one of India's largest women-centric grassroots cycling programmes, creating structured competitive opportunities for women cyclists across cities and districts. The Minister noted that the enthusiastic participation under ASMITA reflects the growing momentum of women's participation in sports and the success of creating an inclusive pathway for nurturing future champions.
Minister's remarks and vision
Speaking on the occasion, Raksha Khadse said: "Under the visionary leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, India is witnessing a transformational change in its sporting ecosystem. Through initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India, we are creating greater opportunities for participation, identifying talent at the grassroots and building a robust pathway for sporting excellence. Cycling possesses immense potential in our country, and through sustained collaboration between the Government, sports federations and all stakeholders, we can nurture world-class athletes capable of bringing glory to India on the global stage."
She further emphasised that a strong grassroots ecosystem, quality coaching, scientific training methods, and regular exposure through national and international competitions will prepare Indian cyclists for success at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, World Championships, and Olympic Games.
Commitment to sporting excellence
The meeting reaffirmed the Government of India's commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, promoting women's participation, supporting high-performance athletes, and building a world-class sporting ecosystem in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. The Minister expressed confidence that continued collaboration between the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, the Sports Authority of India, and the Cycling Federation of India would accelerate the growth of cycling and inspire greater youth participation.
