Shivraj Singh Chouhan performs yoga on the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day

Shivraj Singh Chouhan, participated in a mass yoga event on the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day at the Pusa Campus, New Delhi today.On the occasion, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan stated that the essence of an asana (yoga posture) lies in maintaining a stable and healthy body. 

He remarked, “I will not delve into an elaborate explanation of yoga. Our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, stands as a living testament to its benefits working tirelessly and energetically, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 12 months a year. 

His seamless transitions between countries and states, without fatigue, exemplify the transformative power of yoga.” Sharing his personal journey, Union Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan recounted a life-changing experience from 1998, when he suffered serious injuries in a severe accident that impacted eight parts of his body. 

‘At that time, I could not even imagine walking again,” he said. “But it was yoga that played a pivotal role in my recovery. Today, I am able to lead a healthy, normal life free from the lasting effects of those injuries, thanks to the transformative power of yoga.’

Emphasizing the importance of incorporating yoga into everyday life, Shri Chouhan urged individuals to treat yoga not as a one-day ritual, but as a consistent practice that promotes long-term well-being. 

‘Even if nothing else is followed, yoga alone practiced regularly for health and happiness can make a profound difference,’ he said. ‘Let yoga become a part of daily life.’He also stressed the importance of proper guidance, advising that asanas should be performed under the supervision of trained instructors to avoid injury or adverse effects from incorrect technique.

Speaking on the power of pranayama (breath regulation), Shri Chouhan highlighted that, mastering the breath through pranayama can deliver remarkable benefits. According to our ancient wisdom, the first wealth is a healthy body. 

Nothing can be achieved without a healthy body. As the saying goes, ‘Shariramadyam Khalu Dharmasadhanam’ (‘शरीरमाद्यं खलु धर्मसाधनम्’) the body is the foremost instrument for fulfilling all duties. We must treat our body as a temple, with the same reverence and discipline. 

An unhealthy body neither ensures worldly success nor spiritual fulfillment. This is why our Prime Minister strongly advocates for a ‘Fit India.’ The Minister highlighted the enthusiastic participation in the yoga session by officials from the Ministries of Agriculture and Rural Development, scientists, farmers, and representatives from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). 

The event also witnessed the active involvement of the Lakhpati Didis, women entrepreneurs from self-help groups who are driving transformative change at the grassroots level. ‘Yoga must be embraced wholeheartedly not just once a year, but as a daily commitment. 

Good health allows us to live joyfully and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s prosperity,” he added. Addressing the farming community, Shri Chouhan emphasized that sound health is foundational for productive agriculture. 

“Farming can be performed effectively only when the body is fit. Several yoga postures also support the physical demands of agricultural work,” he explained. “For scientists, yoga enhances concentration and mental clarity, essential for research. 

Similarly, Lakhpati Didis, who manage both livelihood and family responsibilities, will find great value in regular yoga practice.”The Minister urged everyone to come together and embrace yoga as both art and science, saying, “Let us unite in adopting this profound discipline for a healthier and more balanced life, he added.

In his concluding remarks, Shri Chouhan shared a practical formula for daily wellness. “Just as we speak of the 20-20 format in cricket, I propose a ‘20-20-20’ model for life: 20 minutes of asanas, 20 minutes of pranayama, and 20 minutes for planning your day. 

Start each morning by setting your daily goals, and end the day reflecting on your progress. This simple practice can make life purposeful and fulfilling.” The event also featured the participation of Shri Devesh Chaturvedi, Secretary, MoA&FW and Dr. M. L. Jat, Director General (ICAR), who also performed yoga alongside other dignitaries. The theme for the 11th International Yoga Day was: “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.”