Chandigarh, June 19:- Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini said that Yoga is a priceless gift of India's ancient Sanatan culture, bestowed by sages and seers for the welfare of humanity. What began thousands of years ago has today evolved into a global movement. Yoga is not merely a physical exercise but a holistic way of life that connects the body, mind, soul, and society.
The Chief Minister was addressing a Yoga practice programme organized on the occasion of International Day of Yoga at the main shrine of Baba Bhuman Shah located at Baba Bhuman Shah village (Sangar Sarista) in Sirsa district on Friday. During the event, he honoured Baba Brahmdas Maharaj and Mahant Mahesh Muni Maharaj from Kurukshetra by presenting them with shawls. He said that visiting the spiritually vibrant Dera Baba Bhuman Shah Ashram had filled him with immense peace and positive energy.
In his address, the Chief Minister said that the entire world is set to celebrate International Day of Yoga on June 21. As part of the celebrations, Yoga practice programmes have been organized across various districts of Haryana. He credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for giving Yoga global recognition. Due to his persistent efforts, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, with support from 177 countries. Today, almost every nation in the world has embraced Yoga.
He said that from Times Square in New York to the Eiffel Tower in Paris and from Tokyo to Toronto, India’s spiritual heritage is being celebrated through Yoga. This is India’s soft power, established not through force but through culture and spiritual wisdom. He further stated that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, Yogasana has been recognized as a sport and included in the Khelo India Youth Games. Messages such as “Khelega Bharat to Khilega Bharat” and “Yoga Dose, Half an Hour Daily” have become sources of inspiration for millions.
India’s Global Prestige Enhanced Through Development and Yoga Over the Past 12 Years
The Chief Minister said it is a happy coincidence that this year's International Day of Yoga coincides with the completion of 12 years of the Central Government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During these years, India has achieved remarkable progress in infrastructure, technology, and the economy, while also guiding the world towards mental peace and better health through Yoga. He said these 12 years of development and the worldwide spread of Yoga symbolize the growing strength and global leadership of New India.
Teachings of Baba Bhuman Shah Continue to Guide Society
Describing Baba Bhuman Shah Maharaj as a great social reformer and saint devoted to public welfare, the Chief Minister said that he spread the message of feeding the hungry, guiding the lost, and respecting those standing at the last rung of society. Baba Ji emphasized humanity, love, morality, service, and righteous conduct as the foundation of life. His teachings consistently warned against the dangers of drug abuse and encouraged people to value human life as a precious gift from God.
The Chief Minister said that Dera Baba Bhuman Shah is a living symbol of the faith, service, and cultural heritage of the Kamboj community, whose history is marked by bravery, patriotism, hard work, and dedication. Millions of devotees across India and abroad continue to follow the path of truth and service shown by Baba Bhuman Shah. He also appreciated the contribution of Baba Brahmdas Maharaj in carrying forward this spiritual legacy and promoting education, healthcare, spirituality, and humanitarian service.
He said that the programme represented a beautiful confluence of spirituality and Yoga. Yoga means union—the connection of the soul with the divine, balance between the body and mind, and harmony between the individual and society. The simple path of devotion advocated by Baba Bhuman Shah is also a form of inner Yoga. Yoga is not limited to postures and breathing exercises; it is an art of living that generates positive energy. Quoting the scriptures, he said, “Yogah Karmasu Kaushalam,” meaning excellence in action is Yoga.
Youth Urged to Lead the Movement for a Drug-Free Society
The Chief Minister called upon the people to take a pledge not to consume drugs, not to allow others to do so, and to help any youth trapped in addiction return to a healthy life. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Developed India by 2047 can only be achieved when citizens are healthy, aware, and free from addiction. Haryana is continuously working under the theme “Yoga-Yukt, Nasha-Mukt Haryana.”
He informed that Haryana is the first state in the country to establish a Haryana Yoga Commission to promote Yoga. Yoga education has been made compulsory from Classes I to X. Schools, colleges, and universities are providing Yoga training, and Yoga clubs have been established across educational institutions. The Shri Krishna AYUSH University in Kurukshetra has been set up to promote Yoga and Ayurveda.
Expansion of Gymnasiums and AYUSH Services in 6,500 Villages
The Chief Minister said that the state government is committed to establishing gymnasiums in 6,500 villages, of which construction of 883 has already been completed. A total of 859 AYUSH Yoga Assistants have been appointed. Additionally, 397 AYUSH dispensaries and 109 sub-health centres have been upgraded into Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, where 156 Yoga trainers have been deployed.
He added that the current state budget includes provisions for daily Yoga breaks for employees in industrial units. Weekly health campaigns are also being conducted for senior citizens at Ayushman Arogya Mandirs. Practicing Anulom-Vilom, Kapalbhati, and Surya Namaskar for just half an hour daily can help prevent diseases and promote positive energy in life.
Addressing the gathering, Baba Brahmdas Maharaj said that Yoga should be practiced regularly throughout life. Regular Yoga keeps the body healthy, the mind peaceful, and paves the way for spiritual growth. He noted that saints, gurus, and spiritual leaders have always inspired society by adopting Yoga, and Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini is carrying forward this mission by promoting Yoga among all sections of society.
Former MP Smt. Sunita Duggal, Chairmen Shri Rohtash Jangra, Shri Om Prakash, Shri Dev Kumar Sharma, Municipal Council Chairman Shanti Swaroop, and several other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.