The United Nations (UN)’s World Bicycle Day is annually observed across the globe on 3rd June to create awareness about the social, economic and environmental benefits of cycling.
The day also celebrates the uniqueness, durability, and versatility of the bicycle and promotes Bicycles as a simple, sustainable means of transportation.
Background:
i.In April 2018, during the 72nd Regular Session of the United Nations General Assembly(UNGA), the UNGA adopted the resolution A/RES/72/272 and proclaimed the 3rd June of every year as World Bicycle Day. The resolution was adopted by a consensus of 193 members.
ii.The first UN-designated World Bicycle Day was observed on 3rd June 2018.
- The resolution was passed after the grassroots campaign by Professor Leszek Sibilski, who gained the support of Turkmenistan and 56 other countries that co-sponsored the resolution.
- The World Cycling Alliance (WCA) and the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) have campaigned for the UN-designated World Bicycle Day since 2016.
Benefits of Cycling:
i.Cycling is one of the most efficient and sustainable means of transportation.
The World Health Organisation(WHO) is working to help countries retain, promote and enable everyone to cycle for recreation and transport.
ii.This will result in significant health benefits and also contribute to the development of sustainable mobility systems, creating liveable cities and communities, and cleaner air, which also contributes to multiple Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs).
Events in India:
On 3rd June 2022, The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports organised World Bicycle Day 2022 as a part of the celebration of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav-India@75.
As a part of the celebration of World Bicycle Day2022, the Department of Youth Affairs simultaneously undertook 4 sets of activities with the support of Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) and the National Service Scheme (NSS).
- The activities are the launching of World Bicycle Day in Delhi, Bicycle Rallies in 35 States/Union Territories(UTs) Capitals, and 75 Iconic Locations across the country and in all blocks of the country.
Aim: The rallies aim to encourage people to take up and adopt Cycling for physical fitness activities and to eliminate obesity, laziness, stress, anxiety, and diseases.
Key Points:
i.Anurag Singh Thakur, Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports launched the Nationwide programmes from Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi. He also participated along with 750 Young Cyclists in a rally.
ii.Through the cycle rallies organised across India, more than 9.68 Lakh K.M. distance will be covered by 1.29 Lakh Young Cyclists through the proposed Bicycle Rallies on a single day.
