Jaisalmer: Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday flagged off a 200-km walkathon aimed at promoting ”fit India” at a desert location along the India-Pakistan international border in Rajasthan. Such a mega event will be held in the country in December, he announced.
The fast march is being organised by the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and over 100 personnel from various paramilitary forces and state police forces are taking part in the event. It will conclude on November 2 in the Thar desert, NDTV reported quoting PTI.
The walkers will move through sand dunes in areas like Sakhirewala, Bhuttewala and Katoch. The walkathon will culminate after crossing the Indira Gandhi canal in the same district, an officer-in-charge of the event told PTI.
Kiren Rijiju flagged off the march from Nathuwala village along with ITBP director general S S Deswal and actor Vidyut Jammwal.
“It is the dream of our prime minister that every Indian should be fit and that is why my ministry is undertaking the ”fit India” movement. This is not only a government exercise but has become people’s movement.”
“In December, we are planning to hold a big ”fit India” event across the country,” the minister was quoted as saying.
“The walking marathon or walkathon aims to create awareness for a fit and healthy lifestyle among the people. This event is unique as walking in the desert is difficult but the personnel are spreading the message that the determination of ensuring a healthy and fit country and citizens is paramount,” ITBP spokesperson Vivek Kumar Pandey was quoted as saying.
