Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, on June 21, 2024, marked the 10th International Day of Yoga by leading soldiers and personnel at 1 Corps in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, in a series of yoga asanas and breathing exercises. The event, attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande and General Officer Commanding 1 Corps Lt Gen Sanjay Mitra, along with 600 participants including senior officers, Agniveers, families, and children, highlighted the significance of Yoga in promoting holistic well-being.
Speaking on the occasion, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh expressed pride in India’s cultural heritage and its global recognition through Yoga. He credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for popularizing Yoga worldwide, stating, “Yoga and Dhyan connect us with ourselves, our families, and society. They are integral to our culture, promoting universal happiness and good health.”
Addressing this year’s Yoga Day theme, ‘Yoga for Self and Society,’ Rajnath Singh underscored Yoga’s role in enhancing physical fitness, mental calmness, and spiritual well-being. He emphasized its importance in bolstering soldiers’ resilience and readiness to safeguard the nation’s security. “Every Indian soldier embodies the spirit of a Yogi,” he remarked, praising their physical and mental strength during both military operations and national calamities.
Highlighting contemporary challenges like stress, loneliness, and lifestyle diseases, the Raksha Mantri advocated Yoga as a remedy. “Despite the conveniences of modern life, individuals contend with stress, loneliness, and health ailments such as diabetes and obesity, he observed. “Yoga offers a holistic solution by uniting body and mind, reducing anxiety, and promoting overall wellness.”
Rajnath Singh commended the soldiers of 1 Corps for their valorous history in safeguarding the nation, recalling their pivotal roles in historic operations such as ‘Operation Riddle,’ ‘Operation Cactus Lily,’ ‘Operation Pawan,’ and ‘Operation Cactus.’ He reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace while asserting its capability to defend sovereignty if challenged.
During the event, the GOC, 1 Corps presented Rajnath Singh with the ‘Yoddha Smriti Chinha,’ a memento honoring the Armed Forces’ bravery. The Raksha Mantri also planted a sapling to commemorate the 10th International Day of Yoga, symbolizing growth and sustainability.
Meanwhile, Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth participated in a special Yoga session organized by the Indian Coast Guard at Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu, underscoring the widespread observance of Yoga across India’s defense forces on this global occasion.
