Srinagar, Oct 29 ; More than 4,000 people participated in the ‘Pedal Through Paradise’ cycling event in Srinagar on Thursday, bringing together young cyclists, students, women, veterans and specially-abled athletes, as Jammu and Kashmir Police officials underlined the role of sports in promoting fitness and keeping young people away from drug abuse and other social problems.
Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, addressing participants as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said sporting activities could help young people develop discipline, mental resilience and healthier lifestyles. He also raised concerns over growing smartphone dependence and sedentary habits, saying outdoor activities such as cycling could encourage people to spend less time on screens.
“Cycling is not merely about physical fitness; it also helps build mental strength, resilience and discipline,” Prabhat said, congratulating the participants and winners.
The DGP said the Jammu and Kashmir Police was organising sporting events at different levels to encourage youth participation and steer young people away from drug abuse and gambling. He also referred to the establishment of 28 indoor and open-air gyms across the Union Territory.
Additional Director General of Police Nitish Kumar said the participation of more than 4,000 people reflected growing interest in fitness and healthy living. He drew attention to the participation of women and specially-abled athletes, particularly women competing in the wheelchair category.
Kumar also cited the participation of a child aged around four years, saying the event brought together people across age groups and demonstrated how sporting activities could encourage wider public participation.
According to the ADGP, more than 5,000 people had registered for the race, which featured 10 categories, including professional cyclists, senior and junior mountain bikers, boys and girls under 14 and 17 years, veterans above 45 years and specially-abled participants.
The organisers announced prizes worth approximately Rs 5.82 lakh for the winners. A raffle draw featuring bicycles and sports watches was also held.
The police officials linked the event to wider efforts to engage young people through sports. Prabhat referred to the Kashmir Marathon and Jashn-e-Dal, which saw around 6,000 participants across 40 categories, including women and young people.
Upcoming events on the police calendar include the Martyrs Memorial Football Tournament in Srinagar, Run for Unity in Jammu, and hockey and cricket tournaments dedicated to the memory of martyrs.
Kumar also highlighted the achievements of Jammu and Kashmir Police athletes in national and international competitions, including Special Police Officer Suryabhanu Pratap, who won gold at the 11th Moscow Stars Wushu Championship 2026, and SPO Arvinder Singh, who secured bronze at the 10th Senior Asian Pencak Silat Championship 2026.
The DGP thanked the organising committee, Air AG Arms Police and other partners for conducting the event, and acknowledged the media’s role in encouraging public participation in sports. (KNS)
