PGIMER, CHD flags off “Pedal for Planet: Millet cyclothon”to celebrate Earth Day
On the occasion of Earth day, Department of Community Medicine & School of Public Health, PGIMER, Chandigarh, Association for Health Systems Analysis and Strengthening and The MERA initiative jointly organized “Millet Cyclothon: Pedal for the Planet” with support from funding partners; State Bank of India and Verka on 22nd April 2024 from 5:30 am 6:30 am.
Cylists across the city gathered at the starting line (Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, PGIMER, CHD) eagerly awaiting to embark on their scenic routes to Sukhna Lake for a distance of approximately 6 kms.
The event commenced with the introduction of the guest of honor;
Mr Neeraj Kumar -The bicycle man of India to all the participants, who boosted the spirit of the participants and highlighted the importance of millets with variety of millet-based products available in the food stores. The convener of the event, Dr Poonam Khanna(Additional Professor (Nutrition), DCM & SPH, PGIMER) conferred that Millets is a cornerstone of integrated farming systems and their importance in keeping various emerging diseases at bay. She also stressed about types of millets and their nutritional benefits, its cost-effectiveness and low carbon footprint contributing to greener planet.
All the participants were instructed about the rules and regulations to be followed on their journey by Dr Abhinav Kalra.The event was flagged off by Dr Poonam Khanna.
At the finish line, the cyclists were greeted with different activities.Their mind and soul were rejuvenated by 15-20 minutes yoga session by Ms Rupa Tharu,and Surya Namaskar. The event was made more interactive by Laughter sessions, videography, and beautifully designed millet selfie corner.
Savitesh delivered a vote of thanks to all the cyclists and the organizers for their valuable support.The participants left the event feeling inspired and motivated to inculcate millets in their diets for healthy living.
