Rajnath Singh Leads International Yoga Day Celebrations with 1,000 Soldiers in Shillong
News Mania Desk/ 21st June 2026
Shillong, June 21: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the nation’s defence forces in celebrating the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 by performing yoga with around 1,000 personnel of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force at the Eastern Air Command Headquarters in Shillong.
The event, held under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” witnessed participation from several senior dignitaries, including Conrad K Sangma, AP Singh, Inderpal Singh Walia and Mohit Wadhwa.
During the session, participants performed various asanas, breathing exercises and meditation practices aimed at promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and emotional resilience.
Addressing the media, Rajnath Singh described yoga as a holistic science and an art of living that connects individuals with their inner selves, society, nature and ultimately the divine. He emphasized that yoga offers a pathway to mental clarity, inner stability and emotional strength.
In a message shared on social media, the Defence Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for transforming yoga into a global movement through his visionary leadership. He said yoga reflects the strength of India’s ancient traditions and continues to contribute to the well-being of people worldwide.
Calling upon citizens to embrace yoga as a daily practice, Singh said integrating yoga into everyday life would help build a healthy body, a calm mind and a stronger nation.
The participants also viewed the Prime Minister’s International Yoga Day address delivered from Red Road in Kolkata. Simultaneously, yoga sessions were conducted at several forward military locations across the country, showcasing the widespread participation of defence personnel.
Meanwhile, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth participated in Yoga Day celebrations at Ranchi University, stressing the importance of yoga in maintaining positivity and composure in both favorable and challenging situations.
Chief of Defence Staff NS Raja Subramani led celebrations at the National War Memorial, while Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials joined yoga sessions in New Delhi.
More than 10,000 officials of the Defence Accounts Department across India also participated virtually, reinforcing the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to promoting health, wellness and holistic well-being through yoga.
