Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Army Chief Manoj Pande Celebrate International Yoga Day with Soldiers in Mathura
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated International Yoga Day in Mathura with Army Chief Manoj Pande and other senior officers. Singh performed yoga with the troops in Mathura Cantonment.
Singh praised Indian soldiers, saying, “An Indian soldier embodies all the traits of Yoga and Yogi that are universally recognized. Soldier’s physical and mental strength has been demonstrated numerous times in the world. Soldier’s willingness to help people during unfortunate disasters not only at the borders but also within the Indian territory, demonstrates their level of focus and dedication.”
He added, “The way Indian soldiers have avoided unnecessary aggression in adverse circumstances at times also reflects your identity as a Yogi. And along with this, the way you stand up aggressively to protect the integrity and sovereignty of India when needed is unique in itself. This is the identity of a Yogi.”
Singh emphasized India’s non-aggressive stance, stating, “India is known throughout the world for the fact that we have never attacked any country in the world, we have always been against expansionist and imperialist policies, but despite this, India has the capability that if India’s sovereignty is hurt, then India is capable of giving a strong response.”
He also mentioned, “Sometimes a situation arises where the formula of ‘attack is the best defence’ works for self-defence, for defence of our civilization and defence of our values. Therefore, when it comes to the security of the country, those who have offensive capabilities are of great importance.”
Meanwhile, India’s security forces also performed yoga at various places across the country. Indian Army troops performed Yoga in Eastern Ladakh and icy heights on the northern frontier. Sailors of India’s aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya participated in an early morning yoga drill, and some children joined Navy personnel in yoga activities on aircraft carriers.
