PM Modi Backs Yogasana as Competitive Sport, Highlights First World Yoga Championship in Ahmedabad

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reaffirmed India's commitment to promoting yoga on the global stage, emphasizing the growing international acceptance of the ancient practice and expressing confidence in Yogasana emerging as a recognized competitive sport worldwide.

Addressing participants ahead of the first World Yogasana Championship, scheduled to be held in Ahmedabad, the Prime Minister recalled India's successful proposal at the United Nations nearly a decade ago to establish the International Day of Yoga. He noted that the initiative was aimed at connecting India's ancient wellness tradition with the health and collective well-being of humanity.

Modi highlighted that the proposal received overwhelming support from 190 countries at the United Nations, reflecting yoga's universal appeal and relevance in modern society. He expressed satisfaction that millions of people across the world have now incorporated yoga, meditation, and pranayama into their daily lives.

The Prime Minister stated that every great tradition evolves with time and adapts to new generations. According to him, the World Yogasana Championship represents a significant milestone in yoga's evolution, providing Yogasana with a new identity as a competitive sporting discipline.

He expressed optimism that Yogasana could eventually find a place in major international sporting events, including multi-sport competitions and even the Olympics. Modi stressed that consistent efforts and global participation would be key to achieving this objective.

The inaugural World Yogasana Championship in Ahmedabad is expected to bring together athletes, practitioners, and enthusiasts from across the world, showcasing the physical, mental, and cultural dimensions of yoga while promoting India's rich wellness heritage on a global platform.

The Prime Minister said the championship would play a crucial role in elevating Yogasana's international profile and strengthening India's position as the global hub of yoga and holistic wellness.