Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Udhampur, Jammu and Kashmir, on Friday, where he hailed the Indian Army’s valour and reaffirmed India’s resolve in the ongoing Operation Sindoor.
Addressing soldiers during the event, Singh praised their heroism and dedication, particularly highlighting their contributions in recent military operations.
“Your bravery is widely admired across the nation. I salute the valour and courage of the Indian Army,” he said.
Referring to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Singh clarified that Operation Sindoor was not merely a retaliatory measure but part of a broader strategic message.
“It was not just a reaction. The Pahalgam terror attack was a deliberate attempt to disrupt India’s communal harmony. We gave such a powerful response that Pakistan had to retreat. But Operation Sindoor is not over,” he declared.
He further likened the operation to India’s previous bold military actions: “Operation Sindoor is a natural progression of the 2016 Surgical Strike and the 2019 Balakot Air Strike. It is a message to Pakistan: the era of cross-border terrorism will now come at an extremely high cost.”
Singh warned that India will continue to act decisively in the face of any terror threats, stating that Pakistan’s attempts to destabilize India will be met with increased force and unity.
“Pakistan aims to weaken India from within, but let it remember the sacrifices of heroes like Major Somnath Sharma and Brigadier Usman. I stand today just hours away from Naushera, where Brigadier Usman gave his life for Bharat Mata.”
The Defence Minister also spoke on the deeper significance of Yoga, tying it to India’s cultural and national ethos.
“Yoga means union. On this International Yoga Day, let us unite all sections of society in spirit and resolve. Physical yoga must go hand-in-hand with unity of thought and action.”
Singh underlined that Yoga is India’s gift to the world—an ancient tradition now practiced globally, especially in today’s age of anxiety and unrest.
“Yoga is more than just a physical discipline. It is a practice of mindfulness, inner peace, and strength. In a world full of stress, it is a powerful remedy.”
The theme for this year’s Yoga Day, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” reflects India’s philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the belief that the world is one family.
“This theme captures our responsibility to both people and planet, aligning yoga with global well-being and sustainability,” Singh said.
Rajnath Singh arrived in Udhampur on June 20, where he also attended cultural celebrations and ‘Bada Khana’ with army personnel, further highlighting the deep bond between the nation’s leadership and its armed forces.
