130 CISF Personnel including Women to participate

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is all set to launch the second edition of the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026, a landmark national initiative aimed at strengthening coastal security awareness, national unity and community participation.

Building upon the success of the first CISF Coastal Cyclothon, the 2026 edition carries forward this historic movement with renewed resolve and a stronger national connect.

This year the Cyclothon is being organised with the theme “Surakshit Tat, Samridh Bharat” (Secure Coasts, Prosperous India) and carries the patriotic essence of Vande Mataram, symbolising national pride, unity, and collective responsibility towards safeguarding India’s coastline.

The Cyclothon will be a 25-day, 6,553-kilometre cycling expedition covering the entire mainland coastline of India, making it one of the most extensive coastal cycling campaigns ever undertaken in the country.

Speaking on the significance of the cyclothon Dr MG Raghavendra Kumar, IPS, DIG today addressed a press conference in Vizag and informed that India’s Minister of State for Home Affairs, Mr Nityanand Rai will virtually flag off the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026 on 28 January 2026 from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.

Elaborating on the cyclothon he stated that two teams of CISF cyclists will commence simultaneously i.e. one from Western Coast from Lakhpat Fort, Kachchh, Gujarat while the other from Eastern Coast from Bakkhali, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal.

Participation of Women

In fact, what is inspiring is that there will be an equal representation of women CISF personnel too in this cyclothon.

“Out of the total 130 CISF personnel that will be participating in this 65 will be women personnel thereby reflecting inclusivity, resilience and operational strength” highlighted Dr Raghavendra.

Route

Some of the major cities en route include Surat, Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru on the western coast while Haldia, Konark, Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Puducherry, Kanyakumari on the eastern coast.

In Andhra Pradesh some of the regions that the cyclothon will traverse include Sompeta, Srikakakulam, Kakinada, Machilipatnam, Kaveli, Vizianagaram, Naidupeta.

After traversing coastal roads across the country, both teams will converge at Kochi, Kerala on 22 February 2026.

Engaging with Locals

As part of the outreach initiative, CISF cyclist teams will halt overnight at more than 50 selected coastal villages, symbolising solidarity and respect towards coastal communities.

This engagement will extend beyond the Cyclothon, with CISF maintaining sustained interaction through its 47 units located in coastal regions. Planned activities include awareness programmes on recruitment and fitness, cleanliness drives, and community outreach initiatives.

Rigorous Preparation

As per the CISF official all participants have undergone over a month of rigorous training, focusing on Endurance building, Nutrition management, Cycling safety and long-distance riding, Bicycle maintenance, posture optimisation, and efficient pedalling techniques, Professional cyclists were engaged during preparatory sessions to fine-tune performance and safety standards.

Objectives of the Cyclothon

Some of the objectives the CISF Coastal Cyclothon–2026 aims to achieve is Sensitise coastal communities about threats such as smuggling of drugs, weapons, and explosives and encourage vigilance, strengthen partnerships between coastal communities and security agencies for a robust coastal security network, Instil the spirit of Vande Mataram by honouring the sacrifices of freedom fighters, martyrs, and security personnel and their families.

In addition, it will celebrate India’s rich maritime heritage, traditions, history, and geography, highlighting the invaluable contribution of coastal communities, especially fishermen, Promote fitness, discipline and healthy lifestyles, particularly among youth and coastal communities.

Recruitment Drive

Similarly, it looks to apprise the large number of youths of the country about the plethora of employment opportunities available at CISF and their benefits.

“While undertaking this massive initiative we also hope to educate the youth of these regions on the job opportunities available at CSIF” noted Dr Raghavendra.

CISF at Ports

At present, CISF is deployed at all 12 Major Ports of the country, as well as at one strategically important port at Port Blair, underscoring its important role in India’s maritime security framework.

Recognised Security Organisation

The Government of India has designated the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) for port security under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

In pursuance of this mandate, CISF will undertake fresh Port Facility Security Assessments (PFSA) and prepare Port Facility Security Plans (PFSP) for all EXIM ports (approximately 72 ports), in accordance with directions issued by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

In this context, CISF has launched its first-ever specialised training programme for private security personnel at ports, strengthening India’s Hybrid Port Security Model.