CM, Mandaviya flag off Olympic Day Run from city’s JLN Stadium

In a spirited celebration of Olympic values and fitness, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya flagged off Olympic Day Run from Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium in the national capital on Sunday morning.

The event was held in the presence of Indian Olympic Association (IOA) president PT Usha. It saw enthusiastic participation from thousands of Delhi residents.

Organised under the International Olympic Committee’s ‘Let’s Move’ campaign, the run aimed to promote fitness, inclusivity and the Olympic spirit among citizens. Participants from all age groups took part in the event, turning it into a citywide fitness celebration.

Speaking to the media after the event, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed her joy over the overwhelming public participation. “I’m very happy that thousands of Delhi people participated in this Olympic run. It brought immense joy and showed Delhi’s strong connection with sports and the Olympic spirit,” she said.

CM Gupta reaffirmed India’s aspiration to host the Olympic Games in 2036, stating that the country is fully prepared for the honour.

“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the country is constantly progressing — whether it is in terms of nurturing talent, building better infrastructure or ensuring improved facilities for our athletes,” she said.

“If the global community grants us the honour to host the Olympic Games, India will organise the sports extravaganza with full dedication,” she added. The Chief Minister also emphasised that Delhi is ready to play a leading role in realising this Olympic dream and pledged the government’s continued efforts in developing world-class sporting infrastructure.

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya later led the “Fit India Sunday on Cycle” campaign as part of the Olympic Day celebrations, further promoting fitness and environmental awareness.