Udhampur, J&K: Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh led the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations from Northern Command Headquarters in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir, performing yogic asanas and breathing exercises alongside 2,500 soldiers. The celebration marked a powerful display of unity, wellness, and discipline within the Armed Forces.
In his address, the Defence Minister highlighted yoga’s importance as a holistic approach to health, particularly in the high-stress environment soldiers operate in. “Yoga brings clarity amid chaos. It is an art, a science, and a spiritual path. Practising yoga brings control over the body and mind—it empowers us to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively,” he said.
Operation Sindoor: Discipline Through Yoga
Referring to Operation Sindoor, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized that the Indian Armed Forces demonstrated remarkable restraint and precision, a reflection of the mental and emotional balance gained through yoga. He framed the operation as a continuation of India’s firm stand against terrorism, following the 2016 surgical strikes and 2019 airstrikes. “Operation Sindoor delivered a clear message—India will not tolerate terrorism,” he said.
A Message of Unity and Inner Strength
He further added that yoga is more than physical postures—it is a bridge between different sections of society, connecting people through a shared cultural and spiritual heritage. “True yoga means aligning our thoughts and actions for the collective good,” he said. He called upon citizens to perform yoga not just physically, but also mentally and socially, to promote unity and resilience in the country.
Shri Rajnath Singh commended the growing interest in yoga among Armed Forces personnel and stated that the discipline, focus, and resilience that yoga cultivates directly enhances operational readiness. “Yoga prepares soldiers mentally and physically for the battlefield,” he added.
India’s Gift to the World
Echoing Prime Minister Modi’s words, he described yoga as India’s gift to humanity. “It transcends barriers of geography, religion, and culture. It is a tool for wellness and unity the world over,” he remarked.
This year’s IDY theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, promotes the interconnectedness of individual health and planetary wellbeing. “India’s concern is not just for itself but for the entire world. Through yoga, we share a practical expression of this universal vision,” he said.
Calling yoga a quiet revolution, he urged citizens to go beyond treating it as a trend and instead adopt it as a daily habit. “Let yoga become a resolution in everyone’s life,” he concluded.
Nationwide Celebrations Across the Defence Forces
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Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, Northern Command Commander, were present at the Udhampur event.
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Personnel at remote forward locations in Ladakh and J&K also participated in yoga sessions, showcasing high-altitude resilience and dedication.
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Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth led the IDY event at PM Shree High School, Kumhariya, Ranchi, encouraging youth to embrace yoga for a healthier life.
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Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and senior officials took part in yoga at the Controller General of Defence Accounts office in New Delhi.
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The Integrated Defence Staff held its celebration at the National War Memorial, with Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit emphasizing yoga’s role in national well-being.
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Over 1,500 medical professionals and patients at Army Hospital (Research & Referral) in Delhi participated in yoga and a tree plantation drive, symbolizing the harmony between health and sustainability.
The celebrations across the nation not only underscored yoga’s widespread acceptance in the Armed Forces but also reflected India’s growing influence in leading global wellness through ancient traditions.
