PM Modi launches Fit India Movement; Success comes via stairs, not elevators

New Delhi : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged people to make fitness a part of their daily regime and raise awareness about it. Speaking at the launch of Fit India, he said it is a step towards healthy India.

"On this day a great sportsperson was born, Major Dhyan Chand. He amazed the world with his his fitness, stamina, and hockey stick," PM Modi said.

Talking about fitness as a part of our culture, PM Modi said, "A few decades back, a normal person would walk 8-10km in a day, do cycling or run. But physical activity has gone down with the advent of technology."

He invited all Indians to join in and be a part of fit India. The campaign has received support from several national sports icons including World Badminton champion PV Sindhu, sprinter Hima Das along with celebrated wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Sakshi Malik.

“I am taking the pledge, are you guys ready to take the pledge,” PV Sindhu said, in a video released by Sports Authority of India on August 27, encouraging followers to take out some time everyday to keep fit.

On August 25, PM Narendra Modi has announced the campaign in his Mann Ki Baat address.