Indian Army personnel of the Krishna Ghati Brigade’s Balnoi Battalion marked the 11th International Day of Yoga by organising a yoga session in Poonch, with enthusiastic participation from residents of nearby border villages.
Locals from Balnoi, Dad Sagra, Mankot, and surrounding areas joined the soldiers for the event, which aimed to promote health and unity through the practice of yoga.
Speaking to ANI, Mohamed Ashraf Chaudhary, a local resident, said, “People from Balnoi, Dad Sagra, and Mankot came with great enthusiasm. This was the biggest event after Operation Sindoor. I thank the Army for organising it and for always supporting us.”
He added that the Army not only protects the borders but also engages with locals to raise awareness and strengthen ties.
Social activist Moin Aftab Khan from Mankot Panchayat said, “Yoga training was held inside the Army base. Earlier, we only saw such events on TV from Delhi or Punjab. Watching and participating here made us proud.”
He urged villagers, especially elders, to spread the message of yoga and thanked Army officers for maintaining a strong connection with the community.
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir. Singh met Army personnel in Udhampur and praised their efforts in Operation Sindoor.
“Your bravery is widely admired across the nation. I salute the valour and courage of the Indian Army,” Rajnath Singh said while addressing the event.
He added, “In today’s world, where stress, anxiety, and unrest are widespread, yoga has emerged as a powerful solution. Yoga is not merely about sitting quietly with eyes closed—it’s about mindfulness and inner control.”
The theme of this year’s Yoga Day, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, aligns with the global focus on sustainability and well-being.
Speaking about the theme, the Defence Minister said, “Every year, we celebrate Yoga Day with a unique theme. This year’s theme, ‘One Earth, One Health’, reflects India’s belief in Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—that the whole world is one family.”
The Union Minister arrived in Udhampur on the evening of June 20 and participated in cultural celebrations and ‘bada khana’ with Army personnel.
(ANI)