In the latest edition of his monthly radio address Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday encouraged citizens to actively participate in International Yoga Day, set to take place on 21 June, while also commending the Andhra Pradesh government for its proactive promotion of yoga culture through the YogAndhra Abhiyan.
With less than a month remaining until the global event, Prime Minister Modi urged listeners to incorporate yoga into their daily lives, describing it as a transformative practice.
“If you are still away from yoga, join yoga now. It will change the way you live your life,” he stated.
He highlighted the growing popularity of yoga since the first International Yoga Day in 2015, noting that enthusiasm continues to rise both in India and around the world.
Global Momentum And Creative Celebrations
Speaking on the global interest, Mr Modi said that preparations are already visible across various institutions and countries.
“This time too, the zeal and enthusiasm among people all over the world is evident. Many have shared inspiring images from previous years, where yoga chains and yoga rings were formed, even involving four generations,” he noted.
Encouraging innovation, he added, “Consider celebrating Yoga Day at iconic locations in your own city. Let’s make it both meaningful and memorable.”
Andhra Pradesh Sets An Example With YogAndhra Abhiyan
The Prime Minister specifically applauded Andhra Pradesh’s YogAndhra Abhiyan, a large-scale campaign aimed at embedding yoga deeply into the state’s culture.
The initiative seeks to build a community of one million yoga practitioners.
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“I will have the opportunity to join the Yoga Day celebrations in Visakhapatnam this year,” he announced with enthusiasm.
Youth participation remains a highlight of the upcoming Yoga Day, with young people planning events at heritage sites and pledging to break records by forming yoga chains.
“Our young friends are playing a leading role in making this year’s Yoga Day special,” Mr Modi said.
Corporate And Rural Engagements Expand Yoga’s Reach
In a notable trend, both corporate entities and startups have embraced yoga in the workplace.
“Some companies have created dedicated yoga spaces; others have introduced ‘office yoga hours’,” the Prime Minister shared. Furthermore, some individuals are preparing to travel to rural areas to teach yoga, expanding its benefits to all corners of society.
“This collective awareness of health and fitness brings me immense joy,” he remarked.
Shifting focus, Mr Modi also highlighted a recent milestone in the global recognition of traditional medicine.
On 24 May, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed in the presence of the WHO Director-General to launch a dedicated traditional medicine module under the International Classification of Health Interventions.
“This move will help spread AYUSH practices globally in a scientific and credible way,” he affirmed.
Health Awareness In Schools through ‘Sugar Boards’
Addressing healthy habits among children, the Prime Minister spotlighted a creative initiative by CBSE schools the introduction of ‘sugar boards’ to track and reduce sugar intake.
Unlike traditional blackboards, these boards aim to educate students about balanced diets.
“This effort has already prompted many children to choose healthier options,” he said, adding that such initiatives should also extend to offices, canteens, and public institutions.
Fit India For A Stronger Nation
Concluding his address, PM Modi reiterated the link between health and national strength. “A healthy India is the foundation of a strong India.
After all, if there is health, there is everything,” he concluded.
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