Shillong: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led more than 1,000 personnel in International Yoga Day exercises on Sunday at the Eastern Air Command headquarters in Shillong. The event, held at a vital military nerve center, featured high-ranking officials including Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma.
Addressing the assembly, the Defence Minister emphasized the role of yoga in fostering both mental clarity and emotional resilience. He described the practice as a global movement that reflects the efficacy of Indian traditions in promoting universal well-being. Reflecting on the movement, he said, “Yoga has evolved into a global movement, representing the power of Indian traditions in promoting universal well-being.”
Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma used the occasion to advocate for yoga as a lifestyle for the state's youth, citing its benefits for physical fitness and flexibility. While the military led the main observance, the theme of healthy ageing resonated across the state capital through various institutional events.
Educational institutions like the North-Eastern Hill University hosted sessions to help students manage academic stress. Meanwhile, community-led initiatives saw widespread participation, including an NGO-led program that brought yoga to over 500 underprivileged children in local villages and urban slums. In the Garo Hills region, the celebrations continued with youth volunteers and residents gathering in Tura for programs organized by the My Bharat initiative and the Ramakrishna Mission, highlighting yoga's lasting contribution to global health.
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