Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the celebrations for the International Day of Yoga 2024 in Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir on Friday, June 21. This visit marked Modi’s first trip to Kashmir since beginning his third consecutive term in office. The event was held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), where Modi guided participants through a Yoga session.
Addressing the attendees, the Prime Minister highlighted the significant changes in how Yoga is perceived globally over the past decade. He emphasised the growing Yoga economy and noted the increase in Yoga tourism in India, mentioning that places like Rishikesh, Kashi, and Kerala have become popular destinations for Yoga enthusiasts worldwide. Modi pointed out that the demand for authentic Yoga experiences has led to an influx of tourists from around the world, thereby creating numerous employment opportunities for the youth in India.
Global Impact and Growing Popularity of Yoga
PM Modi observed that more people worldwide are incorporating Yoga into their daily routines. He shared that global leaders often express interest in Yoga, reflecting its integration into everyday life across the globe. He described Yoga as a powerful agent for global good, helping individuals live in the present moment and fostering a deeper connection with oneself. The Prime Minister also highlighted that Yoga is becoming a part of people’s daily lives, contributing to a more harmonious existence.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that Yoga is now being taught to astronauts and used in prisons to promote positive thinking among inmates, underscoring its widespread applicability and benefits. He noted that these diverse applications of Yoga demonstrate its versatility and the universal appeal of its practice.
Yoga for Self and Society: 2024 Theme
The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga, “Yoga for Self and Society,” was highlighted during PM Modi’s speech. He spoke about how Yoga helps individuals realise their well-being is interconnected with the well-being of those around them. By fostering inner peace, people can positively impact the world. PM Modi elaborated on the idea that a peaceful individual can contribute to a peaceful society, which in turn can lead to global harmony.
He also pointed out the new opportunities Yoga has created for youth in India, such as employment in Yoga tourism and personal fitness training. He concluded by noting that tourists come to India to learn authentic Yoga, further solidifying the country’s position as a global Yoga hub. He emphasised that the number of people practising Yoga is steadily increasing, creating a ripple effect of positive change and opportunities worldwide. This growth, he stated, showcases Yoga’s enduring relevance and its potential to bring about significant social and economic benefits.