Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, inaugurated the three-day Urban Adda 2025 conclave at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi, aimed at fostering dialogue on sustainable urban futures. Coinciding with World Bicycle Day, the event brought together youth, experts, and policymakers to discuss inclusive and climate-resilient cities. In his keynote address, Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the role of cycling in improving both health and environmental sustainability, stating, “Cycling is the best form of exercise and the solution to pollution.” Recalling his early days as an MP, when he cycled to Parliament and became known as the “cycle-wala MP,” he called for cycling to be seen as a mainstream, fashionable, and inclusive activity. He also highlighted the ‘Sundays on Cycle’ initiative, calling it a growing nationwide movement under the Fit India campaign and urged citizens to embrace cycling as a daily habit to contribute toward a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
On this occasion, Dr. Mandaviya launched two landmark books: “Cycling, Children & Cities” and “Road to Cycle2School”, authored by Dr. Bhairavi Joshi and Ar. Kush Parikh. These publications advocate for safer urban spaces and active mobility for children, reinforcing the message that building a truly developed India must begin with protecting and empowering its youngest citizens through better public infrastructure. Dr. Bhairavi Joshi, a passionate cycling advocate and founder of BYCS India Foundation, concluded the session with a vote of thanks.
Urban Adda 2025 features diverse programming including Youth Adda, a dedicated platform for youth voices; a Cyclothon with 100+ participants; the Urban Adda Film Festival (UAFF-25) showcasing climate innovation films with actor Pooja Bedi as a special guest; and interactive public art exhibits led by artist Sagar Singh. Key dignitaries present at the event included Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Transport Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh, Haryana Minister Rao Narbir Singh, and Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore, among others. Organised by the Raahgiri Foundation in collaboration with ICCT, GuruJal, and supported by Nagarro, Urban Adda runs from June 3 to 5, 2025, promoting a shared vision of sustainable, inclusive cities.
