Armed Forces Celebrate Yoga Day with Rajnath Singh

In a strong show of unity, discipline, and well-being, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh led the Armed Forces in marking the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, 2025, at Northern Command Headquarters, Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir. Alongside nearly 2,500 soldiers, he performed various yogic asanas and breathing exercises, reflecting Yoga’s holistic benefits for body, mind, and spirit.

A Tribute to Global Yoga Ambassador: PM Modi

In his address, Shri Rajnath Singh praised Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his pivotal role in taking Yoga to the global stage. He acknowledged the Prime Minister’s efforts in turning Yoga into a universally admired practice that rises above boundaries of nationality, faith, and culture. “Yoga brings clarity amid chaos; it is art, science, philosophy, and spirituality,” he said.

Yoga: A Pillar of Strength in Operation Sindoor

Emphasizing the deep connection between Yoga and discipline, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh described Operation Sindoor as a powerful testament to the Armed Forces’ inner strength—shaped by yogic control and focus. In retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attack, the operation sent a strong warning to Pakistan. Calling it a natural continuation of the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 air strikes, he revealed that the mission was halted only after Pakistan appealed for a ceasefire. “Make no mistake—India stands fully prepared to respond decisively to terrorism,” he asserted.

Unity Through Yoga

The Defence Minister called for Yoga to be practiced not only at a physical level but also at the level of society and thought. “Yoga is about unifying every section of society with the soul of India. Leaving even one part behind weakens the entire system,” he said. Remembering fallen heroes like Major Somnath Sharma and Brigadier Usman, he emphasized that the sacrifices made for national unity should inspire the entire nation.

Yoga: An Asset for Soldiers

Shri Rajnath Singh praised the enthusiasm of Armed Forces personnel toward Yoga, stating that it significantly enhances their discipline, mental clarity, and physical resilience—essential traits on the battlefield. He encouraged them to make Yoga a daily practice, not just a ceremonial exercise.

India’s Gift to the World

Echoing Prime Minister Modi’s assertion that “Yoga is India’s gift to the world,” Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh stressed that this is not merely a diplomatic sentiment but a guiding vision. He remarked that Yoga is subtly transforming lives across the globe, serving as a living embodiment of India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world is one family. The 2025 theme, One Earth, One Health, reinforces India’s dedication to global well-being.

Nationwide Celebrations

Even as Udhampur took center stage, Yoga Day was celebrated with enthusiasm across the country:

• In Ranchi, Jharkhand, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth led the IDY event at PM Shree High School, Kumhariya. He motivated children to embrace Yoga for a healthier, more focused future, and praised PM Modi for globalizing the ancient practice.
• In New Delhi, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, along with senior officials, took part in a yoga session held at the office of the Controller General of Defence Accounts. Likewise, the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff celebrated International Day of Yoga at the National War Memorial and Museum, with Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit gracing the event as the Chief Guest.
• At Army Hospital (Research & Referral) in New Delhi, over 1,500 participants, including doctors, nurses, paramedics, and patients, took part in a large-scale Yoga session. A tree plantation drive, led by Commandant Lt Gen Shankar Narayan and Deputy Commandant Maj Gen Amul Kapoor, complemented the wellness event, symbolizing a commitment to environmental and personal health.

Yoga in Forward Areas

Demonstrating unwavering resolve and spirit, soldiers stationed in the challenging terrains of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakhalso observed IDY by performing Yoga at forward posts. These acts showcased the resilience and dedication of India’s Armed Forces, even in the harshest conditions.