New Delhi, 21 June 2026: The Indian Army celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga across the length and breadth of the country, reaffirming its commitment to holistic health, mental resilience and disciplined living. From the high-altitude frontiers of the Himalayas to desert, coastal, island and field formations, serving personnel, veterans, families, NCC cadets and civilians participated with enthusiasm, reflecting the unifying spirit of yoga.
This year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” resonated deeply with the Army’s ethos of physical fitness, inner balance and lifelong well-being. The celebrations also highlighted the timeless Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, underscoring yoga’s universal appeal as India’s enduring gift to the world.
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, led the celebrations with troops at Tezpur, Assam. His participation alongside soldiers in the Eastern theatre symbolised the Army’s continued emphasis on fitness, resilience and operational readiness in all terrains and conditions.
At New Delhi, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, participated in a yoga session at Cariappa Ground with over 3,500 enthusiastic participants, including women, children, NCC cadets, serving personnel, veterans, families and civilians. Defence Attachés from more than 17 countries also joined the event, reflecting the global significance of yoga and its growing acceptance as a path to health, harmony and well-being.
Across all Commands, formations and stations, yoga sessions were conducted with active participation by troops and their families. The events reinforced the importance of yoga in improving physical endurance, mental strength, emotional stability and overall quality of life, particularly for soldiers who serve in demanding operational environments.
The Indian Army’s nationwide participation in #IDY2026 reaffirmed its belief that yoga is not merely an exercise routine but a way of life. The celebrations reflected the Army’s collective commitment to promoting health, harmony and well-being while carrying forward India’s civilisational message of unity, balance and universal brotherhood.
