Media Release
New Delhi, Jan 20: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is 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.
India’s vast coastline is home to over 250 ports, including 72 EXIM ports that handle nearly 95% of the nation’s trade. These ports, along with refineries, shipyards, and nuclear power plants located along the coast, are critical to India’s economic growth and energy security. However, they also face persistent threats such as smuggling of drugs, arms, explosives, infiltration, and other illegal activities. For over five decades, CISF has been entrusted with safeguarding 12 major ports and other critical infrastructure along the coasts.
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.
Flag-off ceremony:
Nityanand Rai, Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs will virtually flag off the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon – 2026 on January 28, 2026 from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi, in the presence of senior officers and distinguished dignitaries.
Theme and vision
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.
Scale and route of the Cyclothon
The Cyclothon is 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.
Two teams of CISF cyclists will commence simultaneously:
Western coast: From Lakhpat Fort, Kachchh, Gujarat
Eastern coast: From Bakkhali, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
After traversing coastal roads across the country, both teams will converge at Kochi, Kerala on February 22, 2026.
Major cities en route include:
Western coast: Surat, Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru
Eastern coast: Haldia, Konark, Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Puducherry, Kanyakumari
Participants and preparation
130 CISF personnel, and including 65 women personnel, will participate in the Cyclothon, reflecting inclusivity, resilience and operational strength.
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
The CISF Coastal Cyclothon – 2026 aims to:
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.
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.