Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses a gathering on the occasion of the 10th International Day of Yoga, in Srinagar on Friday, June 21, 2024.
Credit: PTI Photo
Srinagar: Stating that India’s proposal to celebrate International Yoga Day at the United Nations received the backing of 177 countries, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that the world has seen a new 'yoga' country emerge in the past decade.
After participating in the 10th International Day of Yoga here, he said, "Today, from the land of Kashmir, I congratulate everyone around the world on International Yoga Day".
Reflecting on the journey, Modi said, "Ten years ago, I proposed the celebration of International Yoga Day at the United Nations, and 177 nations supported India's proposal, setting a record. In 2015, on Kartavya Path in Delhi, 35,000 people performed Yoga Asanas together."
During his two-day visit to Srinagar, Modi emphasized the global impact of yoga, noting that it has helped people understand the interconnectedness of their well-being with that of the world.
"The world views yoga as a powerful force for global good. It helps us live in the present moment without the baggage of the past," he said. "When we are peaceful within, we can also positively impact the world. Yoga is driving positive change in society."
The Prime Minister interacted with young participants, taking selfies and acknowledging their warm reception despite the morning rain in Srinagar. The Yoga Day celebrations were a resounding success, showcasing the enthusiasm of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Modi highlighted that the participation of 50,000 to 60,000 people in yoga programs in the region is significant and praised their spirit despite the weather.
He also noted that yoga could boost tourism in Jammu & Kashmir and thanked the residents for their support and participation, extending his best wishes to yoga enthusiasts worldwide. The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga was "Yoga for Self and Society", emphasizing yoga’s role in enhancing individual and societal well-being.
Since 2015, Modi has led International Day of Yoga celebrations at various locations, including Kartavya Path in Delhi, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Ranchi, Lucknow, Mysuru, and the United Nations headquarters in New York.