NCB Launches Nationwide Cyclothons and Bike Rallies to Promote a Drug-Free India

BY A STAFF REPORTER:  As part of its nationwide awareness campaign leadi Nasha Mukt Pakhwada (fortnight) since 11 June 2025, as part of pakhwada, on 22nd June 2025 organized Cyclothons and Bike Rallies across India. Theng up to the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (26 June), the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) is observing initiative showcased public unity and commitment to a Drug-Free India, drawing participation from enforcement agencies, youth volunteers, banking institutions, NGOs, and citizens.

In New Delhi, the Cyclothon was flagged off from the National Police Memorial, Chanakyapuri. The event saw over 1,000 cyclists, including NCB, Delhi Police, CAPFs, Brahma Kumaris, and community groups. Shri Anurag Garg, Director General, NCB, flagged off and led the rally and cycled alongside participants. Senior officials from NCB and Delhi Police, along with Olympian Sarita Mor, also graced the event. Addressing the gathering, Shri Garg said, “This fight against drugs is not only the responsibility of enforcement agencies. It requires the collective commitment of society — including youth, families, and institutions. Let us strengthen this movement through awareness, empathy, cooperation, and effective action to achieve the vision of a Drug-Free India.”

In addition to above, In Mumbai, NCB in collaboration with Greater Mumbai Police held a Cyclothon from Bandra Reclamation to Juhu Beach, flagged off by the ADG, ATS Maharashtra. The event included the launch of a special postal stamp, “Say No to Drugs, Say Yes to Life,” In Kolkata, over 300 cyclists from banks and public institutions participated and further energizing the regional outreach.

The Chennai Zonal Unit organized a grand Cyclothon. Over 1,500 cyclists and a 40 km Bikeathon with 30 Riders Army bikers amplified the message.
 In Ahmedabad, more than 100 bikers, including NCB officials, youth, and NGOs, participated in a rally ending at the National Forensic Sciences University, Gandhinagar.

Guwahati saw a strong turnout of over 550 cyclists. In Bengaluru, Brindavan College hosted a rally with 500+ participants, flagged off by Olympians Pramila and Sri Aiyappa, and supported by IAF, CRPF, NCC, Karnataka Police.

In Visakhapatnam, around 100 cyclists joined a 30 km Cyclothon promoting community awareness and healthy living. Jammu held a spirited 18–20 km Bike Rally with 60–80 bikers including local motorbike groups and NCB personnel, symbolizing strong regional resolve.

At Telibandha Marine Drive, Raipur , the  Zonal Unit conducted a Cyclothon with the huge participation of the members of NGOs, NCB official and local police. In Cochin, around 100 cyclists rode from Kalamassery Metro Station to the NCB Office in Kakkanad in association with the Ernakulam Jilla Cycling Association. Siliguri hosted a Motorcycle Rally of 40 bikers drawing lively community engagement.

In Lucknow, a Bike Rally was organised from the historic Rumi Darwaza and concluded at the NCB office. Around 160 bikers from across Uttar Pradesh participated, raising awareness and reinforcing the national movement towards a Drug-Free India.

Some of these events were supported by Punjab National Bank, Bank of Maharashtra, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Indian Overseas bank, Canara Bank and SBI.

These events exemplify NCB’s continued dedication to its mission of combating drug abuse and trafficking through awareness, engagement, and public empowerment.

To fight against drug trafficking, NCB seeks support of the citizens. Any person can share information related to sale of narcotics by calling on MANAS- National Narcotics Helpline Toll Free Number-1933.  The identity of the caller is kept confidential.