Srinagar, August 12, 2025: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today felicitated 79 cyclists who participated in the ‘Pedal for Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ rally, organized by the Border Security Force (BSF) as part of India’s 79th Independence Day celebrations. The 79-km cycle rally, comprising 40 local youth and 39 BSF personnel, started from the BSF Campus in Bandipora and covered Manasbal, Sumbal, Shalateng, Hyderpora, Bakshi Stadium, and culminated at the Frontier HQ, BSF Kashmir, Humhama.LG Sinha praised the BSF for honoring the valor and sacrifice of soldiers who uphold India’s unity and integrity.
“The rally inspires the youth to join the BSF, Army, and Police, embodying the vision of our founding fathers for selfless service,” he said. He noted that the 79 kilometers symbolize 79 years of India’s independence, with each cyclist representing the strength of society and the nation’s unity from “Kashmir to Kanyakumari.” Sinha urged citizens to embrace the ‘Nation First’ spirit and contribute to a Viksit Bharat (Developed India).
The event, aimed at fostering national unity and promoting tourism, also encouraged youth to pursue positive goals. Sinha called for vigilance against divisive elements disrupting peace and urged participation in the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. He paid tribute to civilians martyred in a recent Pakistan-sponsored terror attack in Pahalgam, vowing a strong response through operations like Mahadev and Sindoor.
Senior officials, including IG BSF Kashmir Frontier Ashok Yadav, Deputy Commissioner Budgam Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat, and SSP Budgam Nikhil Borkar, attended the felicitation ceremony alongside a large number of youth, reflecting the region’s collective commitment to unity and progress.
