The Newz Radar
MANDI: Jaspreet Pal, a 44-year-old cyclist of Mandi town, has been made the State Election Icon by the Himachal Pradesh election authorities. A related memorandum of understanding was signed between Chief Electoral Officer Maneesh Garg and cyclist Jaspreet in Shimla on April 8 (2024).
Besides being a cyclist, Jaspreet is also a professional photographer. Additionally, he has made significant contributions to social causes such as child literacy and environmental conservation. During the discussion with Jaspreet, the Chief Electoral Officer suggested organising a cycling rally in Himachal for voter awareness.
Behind Jaspreet being chosen as the election icon are numerous achievements in the field of cycling and several important records that inspire the youth. In 2021, Jaspreet secured the first place in the FireFox-Firestorm Challenge, standing first in the country. He has also been a winner in various district-level competitions. He has completed three major journeys through cycling, including a journey from Mandi’s Thunag to Chandratal via Rohtang Pass in just four days. He has also cycled from Manali to Chamba via Udaipur and from Kila to Sach Pass. Additionally, he has cycled from Shimla to Chanshal Pass.
Speaking of cycling championships, Jaspreet Pal secured third place in the First MTV Himachal Championship held from June 23 to 26 last year. Recently, Jaspreet scaled the highest peak in Mandi district, Shikari Devi, which is situated at an altitude of 3,358 metres, using his bicycle. The district administration of Mandi has praised his achievements.
Jaspreet has conquered many high peaks in the rugged areas of Mandi district, including Shikari Devi, Shaita Dhar and Kamrunag, as well as reaching difficult areas up to Kullu in a single day. In September 2023, along with three other cyclists, Jaspreet completed the Mikal Spiti Circuit. He covered a distance of 705 km in nine days, crossing Shimla, Rampur, Kinnaur, Kaza, Comic, Hikkim (home to the world’s highest post office) and Kunzum Pass, completing his ride in Manali.
Jaspreet says he started cycling to keep himself fit but now it has become his passion. Through cycling, he explores new places and captures them through his photography, highlighting them on social media to promote tourism in Himachal Pradesh. He also aims to raise awareness among people about the ‘Fit India Movement’ and environmental conservation through cycling.
Although Jaspreet started cycling during the lockdown to stay fit, now his bicycle has become an integral part of his life, and his goal is to educate the youth of the state about the benefits of cycling and its crucial role in the state government’s ‘Green State Mission’. Jaspreet has now initiated a new campaign as he travels to remote villages in Mandi on his bicycle to raise awareness among children and youth about fitness, sports and environmental conservation.
