Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) on January 28 launched the CISF Vande Mataram Coastal Cyclothon–2026, a nationwide public outreach and awareness initiative aimed at strengthening India’s coastal security through community participation.

Significance of India’s Coastline

India’s coastline spans 72 coastal districts and is home to nearly 18 per cent of the country’s population. Covering about 12 per cent of India’s mainland area, the coastal belt is critical to the nation’s economic and strategic framework.

• The maritime sector handles nearly 95 per cent of India’s trade by volume and about 70 per cent by value.
• It operates through 12 major ports and over 200 minor and intermediate ports.
• The coastline includes more than 3,300 coastal villages and hosts several critical installations linked to defence, space, atomic energy, petroleum and shipping.

Objective and Alignment

The Cyclothon seeks to foster public vigilance and cooperation as an integral component of coastal security. It aligns with broader measures such as Operation Sajag, coordination with coastal police stations, Joint Operations Centres, and the Prime Minister’s SAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region).

Participation and Outreach

According to CISF:

• Over 25 lakh people participated on the ground.
• The initiative achieved digital engagement of more than 2.5 crore citizens.
• More than 1,100 registered cyclists took part across coastal routes.