New Delhi: The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is set to launch the second edition of the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026, a major national initiative aimed at strengthening coastal security awareness, national unity, and community participation. The cyclothon will be flagged off on January 28, 2026, marking a renewed commitment to safeguarding India’s vast and strategically vital coastline.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the 2026 cyclothon seeks to deepen public engagement and reinforce the partnership between coastal communities and security agencies.
Importance of Coastal Security for India’s Economy
India’s extensive coastline supports over 250 ports, including 72 EXIM ports that together handle nearly 95 percent of the country’s trade. These coastal regions also host critical infrastructure such as:
- Refineries
- Shipyards
- Nuclear power plants
While vital to economic growth and energy security, these assets remain vulnerable to persistent threats such as drug trafficking, arms and explosives smuggling, infiltration, and other illegal activities.
For over five decades, CISF has played a pivotal role in safeguarding coastal infrastructure, currently providing security to 12 major ports and other sensitive installations.
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Flag-Off Ceremony Details
The CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026 will be virtually flagged off by Nityanand Rai, Hon’ble Minister of State for Home Affairs, on January 28, 2026, from the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi.
The ceremony will be attended by senior CISF officers and distinguished dignitaries, underscoring the national importance of the initiative.
Theme and Vision: “Surakshit Tat, Samridh Bharat”
The cyclothon is being organised under the theme:
“Surakshit Tat, Samridh Bharat” (Secure Coasts, Prosperous India)
Carrying the patriotic spirit of Vande Mataram, the initiative symbolises national pride, unity, and collective responsibility towards protecting India’s coastline and maritime interests.
Scale and Route: One of India’s Longest Coastal Cycling Campaigns
The Coastal Cyclothon–2026 is a 25-day cycling expedition covering 6,553 kilometres, spanning the entire mainland coastline of India. It is among the largest coastal cycling campaigns ever undertaken in the country.
Two Teams, Two Coasts
Two teams of CISF cyclists will begin simultaneously from opposite ends of the coastline:
Western Coast Route:
- Starts from Lakhpat Fort, Kachchh, Gujarat
- Passes through Surat, Mumbai, Goa, Mangaluru
Eastern Coast Route:
- Starts from Bakkhali, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
- Passes through Haldia, Konark, Paradip, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Puducherry, Kanyakumari
After traversing coastal roads across multiple states, both teams will converge at Kochi, Kerala, on February 22, 2026.
Participants and Rigorous Preparation
A total of 130 CISF personnel, including 65 women personnel, will participate in the cyclothon, highlighting inclusivity, resilience, and operational strength of the force.
All participants have undergone over a month of intensive training, focusing on:
- Endurance and stamina building
- Nutrition management
- Long-distance cycling safety
- Bicycle maintenance
- Posture optimisation and efficient pedalling techniques
Professional cyclists were engaged during training sessions to enhance performance and ensure safety standards.
Objectives of the CISF Coastal Cyclothon–2026
The cyclothon aims to achieve multiple national and social objectives, including:
- Sensitising coastal communities about threats such as smuggling of drugs, weapons, and explosives
- Encouraging vigilance and cooperation between citizens and security agencies
- Strengthening the coastal security network through community partnership
- Honouring the sacrifices of freedom fighters, martyrs, and security personnel
- Celebrating India’s maritime heritage, coastal traditions, and geography
- Highlighting the contribution of fishermen and coastal communities
Promoting fitness, discipline, and healthy lifestyles, especially among youth
CISF’s Statutory Role in Port Security
The Government of India has designated CISF as the Recognised Security Organisation (RSO) for port security under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
In line with this mandate:
- CISF will conduct Port Facility Security Assessments (PFSA)
- Prepare Port Facility Security Plans (PFSP) for all 72 EXIM ports
Progressively assume core security responsibilities at several ports under a hybrid security model, in coordination with other stakeholders
Currently, CISF is deployed at:
- All 12 major ports of India
- One strategically important non-major port at Port Blair
It is expected that CISF will expand its presence to all 72 EXIM ports in the near future, further strengthening India’s maritime security architecture.
Strengthening Bond with Coastal Communities
Officials noted that the Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026 will further deepen the bond between coastal communities and CISF, fostering trust, awareness, and shared responsibility in safeguarding the nation’s maritime frontiers.
