On the occasion of International Yoga Day, the Indian Army created a symbolic connection called ‘Bharatmala’ by organizing Yoga sessions along the nation’s border areas from Kashmir to Kanyakumari.
The formation of Bharatmala encompassed various significant locations, starting from the easternmost point of Dong, where the first rays of the sun touch Indian soil, to the sand dunes of Longewala in Rajasthan, known for the historic 1971 battle. It extended from the icy heights of Siachen to the southern tip of Kanyakumari, including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The Ministry of Defence stated that the event witnessed active participation from troops, their families, including children, and defence civilians. The local population in each location was also encouraged to join the Yoga activities.
General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff, graced the mass Yoga event as the Chief Guest, which took place at the Cariappa Parade Ground in Delhi Cantt, New Delhi.
In addition to the domestic celebrations, the Indian Army extended its outreach to African nations through the Indian Army contingents deployed in United Nations (UN) Mission areas and other Training Teams abroad, according to a defence ministry official.
The ministry emphasized that Yoga, deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions for ages, has gained global acceptance in various forms. The scientific community has also recognized the transformative and therapeutic effects of Yoga.
Irrespective of their deployment location, the Indian Army has consistently incorporated Yoga protocols into its daily activities.
As part of their national efforts, the Indian Army regularly engages with the local population, especially in remote border areas, to raise awareness and conduct workshops to promote Yoga, an Army official added.
Meanwhile, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) celebrated the 9th International Yoga Day with great enthusiasm, with the participation of 11 lakh NCC Cadets at different venues across India.
Yoga sessions were held in parks, open grounds, schools, and colleges throughout the country, from Leh in the north to Kanyakumari in the south, and from Dwarka in the west to Tezu in the east.
Lt. Gen. Gurbirpal Singh, AVSM VSM, Director General NCC, presided over a spirited gathering of cadets from all three services in Delhi Cantt. He encouraged everyone to embrace the Yoga way of life while explaining the essence of the themes ‘Har Aangan Yoga’ and ‘Yoga for Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, as stated by the NCC. (Edited)
