The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
PARADIP, MARCH 13, 2025
The CISF Coastal Cyclothon, an inspiring initiative aimed at promoting coastal security and environmental awareness, reached Paradip Port, Odisha, on March 11, marking a significant milestone in its 6,553 km journey along India’s coastline. The expedition, which began at Bakkhali Beach, West Bengal, has garnered enthusiastic support from local communities, officials, and security agencies as it steadily moves southward.
The East Coast team, consisting of 50 cyclists — including 8 women — embarked on a challenging 2,778 km ride, traversing the coastal states of West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. Their journey is set to culminate at the Swami Vivekananda Memorial in Kanyakumari on March 31, 2025. Throughout this expedition, the cyclists have actively engaged with fishermen, local youth, and industry representatives, spreading vital messages on coastal safety and national security, and underscoring CISF’s unwavering commitment to protecting India’s shores.
This morning, as the team continued their journey toward Konark, they were warmly greeted by a vibrant local community, enthusiastic school students, and eminent dignitaries at Paradip beach. The event was marked by a series of cultural performances including an Odissi dance by Paramjyoti Kala Kshetra, Bharat Natyam, and a patriotic song rendered by a local CISF Unit ward, alongside an engaging dog show, fire demonstration, and an impressive march-past by the CISF Wing of PPA.
Chief Guest P. L. Haranadh, Chairman of Paradip Port Authority (PPA), officially flagged off the onward journey of the East Coast Team. The gathering was further honored by the presence of distinguished guests such as Dr. Md Shik Abdulla, DIG/CISF NEZ-III Headquarters, Mundali; Shri Nilabhra Dasgupta, Dy. Chairman, PPA; Sanjay Negi, DIG, Coast Guard; and Smriti Ranjan Kar, Additional SP, Paradip. Addressing the audience, officials emphasized the critical importance of coastal vigilance, environmental conservation, and active community participation in strengthening national security.
Inaugurated on March 7, 2025, by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the CISF Coastal Cyclothon seeks to sensitize coastal communities about the indispensable role of CISF in safeguarding India’s maritime infrastructure. With two teams riding from both the western and eastern coasts, the cyclothon is set to traverse 11 states, covering key coastal hubs and industrial zones. The initiative warmly welcomes civilian participation, both physically and virtually, with further details available at www.cisfcyclothon.com.
As the cyclists advance further into Odisha and beyond, their rallying cry, “Surakshit Tat, Samriddh Bharat” (“A secure coast ensures a prosperous India”), resonates deeply with the public. More than just a physical endurance challenge, the cyclothon stands as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and national pride—reinforcing the shared responsibility of coastal security and environmental sustainability in forging a safer, stronger India.
