Srinagar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir for the 10th International Day of Yoga (IDY) marked a significant moment in celebrating yoga against the serene backdrop of Dal Lake in Srinagar.
Addressing a gathering of 7,000 participants at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC), PM Modi not only extolled the spiritual and cultural heritage of Kashmir but also envisioned the region as a burgeoning wellness destination. PM Modi spoke passionately about the transformative power of yoga, emphasizing its ability to foster mindfulness and live in the present moment, unburdened by past complexities. He expressed gratitude for being in Jammu & Kashmir, describing it as the land of Yog and Sadhna, resonating deeply with the spirit of International Day of Yoga. “The atmosphere, energy, and experience from yoga can be felt in Jammu & Kashmir today,” PM Modi remarked, underscoring the enthusiastic participation of the local populace, particularly in Srinagar, and its potential to bolster tourism and create livelihood opportunities for the youth. Recognizing the global reach of yoga, PM Modi highlighted that 177 countries have endorsed India’s initiative for International Yoga Day at the United Nations. He recalled landmark events such as the mass yoga session with 35,000 participants at Delhi’s Kartavya Path in 2015 and the international yoga event at the UN Headquarters, showcasing yoga’s growing popularity and acceptance worldwide.
PM Modi also celebrated the recognition received by over 100 Indian and 10 major foreign institutes from the Yoga Certification Board, emphasizing the increasing number of people adopting yoga as a lifestyle choice globally. He noted that yoga has transcended geographical boundaries and has become a part of daily life across various nations, often discussed by world leaders during their interactions with him. Highlighting specific examples, PM Modi pointed out that Saudi Arabia has integrated yoga into its education system, Turkmenistan has embraced yoga therapy in medical universities, and the Mongolian Yoga Foundation operates multiple yoga schools. In Europe, he noted that 1.5 crore Germans practice yoga, showcasing its widespread appeal and cultural integration. PM Modi also drew attention to the economic potential of yoga, mentioning its role in promoting yoga tourism, with an increasing number of people aspiring to visit India for authentic yoga experiences. He highlighted the emergence of yoga retreats, dedicated yoga facilities at airports and hotels, and the burgeoning market for yoga apparel and equipment, contributing to job creation and economic growth.
Addressing this year’s theme, ‘Yoga for Self and Society,’ PM Modi stressed yoga’s role in promoting individual well-being while fostering a sense of collective responsibility towards global welfare. He emphasized yoga’s scientific benefits in managing stress, improving concentration, and enhancing overall mental and physical health, noting its applications in diverse fields from the military to space exploration. PM Modi expressed confidence that yoga would continue to inspire positive energy and contribute to societal harmony and progress. Despite challenging weather conditions, he commended the massive turnout of 50,000 to 60,000 participants at the Jammu & Kashmir yoga event, underscoring the region’s embrace of yoga and its potential as a cultural hub. In conclusion, PM Modi thanked the people of Jammu & Kashmir for their unwavering support and participation in the International Day of Yoga celebrations. His visit not only reaffirmed India’s commitment to promoting yoga globally but also showcased Jammu & Kashmir as a symbol of peace, wellness, and unity through the practice of yoga.
