Faridabad, July 31 (Sports Desk)
In a landmark move for Indian sports, the Cycling Federation of India (CFI) and Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster excellence in cycling and sports education. The MoU was formalized during a ceremony at the Manav Rachna University campus in Sector 43, Faridabad.
Event Highlights
The signing ceremony was graced by key dignitaries, including:
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Maninder Pal Singh, Secretary General, CFI
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Shipra Verma, Executive Member, CFI
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V.N. Singh, Assistant Secretary, CFI
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Nitin Arya, Sports Consultant
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Amit Bhalla, Vice President, MRIIRS
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Sakar Talwar, Director – Sports, MRU
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Agan Talwar, Sports Collaborations & New Initiatives, MRU
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Nitesh Malhotra, Head of Department – Physiotherapy, MRU
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Other senior university officials, CFI representatives, sports experts, and media personnel
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Objectives of the MoU
This collaboration is set to revolutionize Indian cycling by integrating sports and education, enabling athletes to pursue professional training alongside higher education. Key initiatives include:
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CFI–MRIIRS Cycling Coaching Academy: A first-of-its-kind program offering:
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UCI-aligned Coaching Certifications (Level 1–3)
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India’s first 18-month Diploma in Cycling Coaching & Sports Sciences
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SafeCycle Program to promote cycling safety and awareness
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Career pathways for coaches, commissaires, mechanics, and event directors
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International exposure and regional collaborations
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Leadership Perspectives
Amit Bhalla, Vice President of MRIIRS, described the partnership as a transformative step toward creating a sustainable, globally competitive cycling ecosystem in India. He outlined plans for scholarships, eligibility criteria, and implementation starting from upcoming academic sessions.
Maninder Pal Singh, CFI Secretary General, stated, “This MoU with Manav Rachna University is a visionary leap toward merging elite sports training with education. By combining CFI’s technical expertise and MRIIRS’s academic and sports science infrastructure, we are setting a new standard for cycling education and talent development in India.”
Impact and Vision
This partnership leverages CFI’s international affiliations and MRIIRS’s academic excellence to create a robust framework for aspiring cyclists and sports professionals. It aims to establish India as a global hub for cycling education, coaching, and capacity building, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s sports landscape.
