Cyclist Ji Ingobi Chongtham, 21, embarked on a seven-nation tour of South Asian countries from here on Saturday to spread the message of brotherhood.

Chongtham, the eldest of three sons of Chingtham Ingocha Singh and Tampakleima Devi and a resident of Sapam Mayai Leikai, Khongjom, in Thoubal district, wants to spread awareness on the Act East Policy, women empowerment and climate change, among others.

Manipur consumer affairs food and public distribution minister Karam Shyam flagged off the cyclist’s trek from Kangla Western Gate.

“The theme of my tour is — Respect your identity and others will respect you. I seek to promote brotherhood among all the South Asian countries,” Chongtham said.

The cyclist said he would visit Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Singapore during his 220-day journey.

Earlier, Chongtham completed a 20-day sojourn of all Manipur villages. He had also undertaken a tour from Imphal to New Delhi last year with a message of Beti Padhao and Beti Bachao.

Of the total expenditure of Rs 4 lakh, Chongtham’s well-wishers have given him around Rs 1 lakh. He has appealed to the state government for the rest of the amount. The cyclist will use global positioning system to track his own movement during the tour.

Shyam said, “This is a bold and innovative mission that is fuelled to create a unique identity of Manipur across the globe.”

Hailing Chongtham as the “brave son of Manipur”, the minister said such adventure needs indomitable courage, talent and sound health to brave all odds on the way.

“The government supports such an innovative activity that will put a small state like Manipur with a population of 28 lakh in the limelight,” he added.