Twenty-four-year-old Manipur cyclist Philem Rohan Singh is a man on a mission. He is cycling his way throughout the country to raise awareness about key issues ranging from environment conservation to climate change to saving water.
With already 10,000 kilometres under his belt so far, from four official cycling trips, Rohan is ready to embark on a new journey and a new mission.
This time he will cycle from Kashmir to Kanyakumari covering Srinagar, Manali, Leh Ladakh, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan among other popular destinations during his 4000 kms journey. The focus would be on 'Water For Life' theme for which he will cover the country from North to South in a span of 2-and-a-half months.
How it all began?
Rohan was studying in sixth standard when he first developed an interest in cycling. After that he continued to follow his passion and soon realised he could develop this into something that could help mother earth.
"I kept focussing on travel experience. After many years in 2018, I realised I will start cycling for a cause", he said in conversation with Indiatimes.
His journeys
Rohan has undertaken four official trips.
First trip was from India Gate (New Delhi) to Imphal (Manipur) in January 2018 with 'Pollution Free Delhi' as the theme covering 2800 kms.
His second trip came in March 2018 from Imphal to Kolkata covering 1700 kms with 'Unity in Diversity' as the theme.
His third trip was to raise awareness for Sangai, the state animal of Manipur. It is also an endangered subspecies of brow-antlered deer found only in Manipur. He cycled from Greater Noida (Uttar Pradesh) to Imphal.
The fourth one came recently in March this year when he rode across 7 cities to raise funds for Pulwama martyrs.
What does he do during his journeys?
Rohan makes pit stops at schools, colleges and other institutions where he asks them about the problems they face. He interacts with villagers to know about the issues affecting them.?
He even has launched T-Shirts called 'Cycle for Humanity', the proceeds of which he donates to charity.
Rohan Singh
Support system?
Rohan said the whole of Manipur state government has always been helpful. "The government of Manipur has also helped. CAF & PD, Revenue Minister Karam Shyam has been helpful", he said.
What next?
Rohan has now set his eyes on cycling to Tokyo in 2020 for the Olympics. "My main purpose is to cheer for India, peace and humanity", he added.