Veer Birsa Munda Cyclothon Phase I flagged off across Jharkhand

The first phase of the Veer Birsa Munda Cyclothon, organised by the NCC Directorate, Bihar and Jharkhand under the aegis of NCC Group Headquarters, Ranchi, was flagged off on Thursday from three locations in Jharkhand, marking the start of a state-wide initiative to honour the legacy of tribal freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The cyclothon was simultaneously flagged off from Latehar, Gumla and Torpa. In Latehar, the event was flagged off by Deputy Commissioner Utkarsh Gupta, IAS; at Gumla by Amitabh Bharti, Principal of BN Jalan College, Sisai; and at Torpa by Khunti Superintendent of Police Manish Topo. Senior Army officers, NCC cadets, civil administration officials, members of the local community and media representatives were present at the send-off ceremonies.

Advertisement

The Latehar axis is being led by Col R R S Singh, Commanding Officer, 12 Bihar Battalion NCC. The Torpa axis is under the leadership of Col Anil Kumar, Commanding Officer, 4 Jharkhand Girls Battalion NCC, while the Gumla axis is led by Lt Col P B Sharma of 46 Jharkhand Battalion NCC. Each team comprises permanent instructor staff and six NCC cadets, including three girl cadets, with logistical and administrative support provided along the routes.

The cyclothon is being conducted under the theme “Shaurya Ke Kadam Kranti Ki Ore”, highlighting values of courage, sacrifice and social justice associated with Bhagwan Birsa Munda. Addressing the gatherings, the chief guests underlined the relevance of Birsa Munda’s ideals in contemporary times and urged the youth to combine physical fitness with discipline, patriotism and social responsibility. They also lauded the coordination between the NCC, civil administration and local communities in organising the event.

Residents along the route extended a warm reception to the cyclists, reflecting public participation and respect for the iconic tribal leader. Organisers said the initiative aims to inspire young people to reconnect with India’s freedom struggle while embracing an active and healthy lifestyle.

After night halts at Mandar, Lohardaga and Ulihatu, the cyclothon teams are scheduled to begin the final leg of their journey towards Ranchi on 19 December.