The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today paid tributes to Dr. Syama Prasad Mukherjee on his Balidan Divas.

In a post on X, he wrote:

“डॉ. श्यामा प्रसाद मुखर्जी को उनके बलिदान दिवस पर कोटि-कोटि नमन। उन्होंने देश की अखंडता को अक्षुण्ण रखने के लिए अतुलनीय साहस और पुरुषार्थ का परिचय दिया। राष्ट्र निर्माण में उनका अमूल्य योगदान हमेशा श्रद्धापूर्वक याद किया जाएगा।”

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today commended the people of Andhra Pradesh for their inspiring commitment to integrating Yoga into daily life, further propelling the nationwide movement for health and wellness.

Shri Modi praised the state’s grassroots enthusiasm and the proactive support shown under the Yogandhra initiative during the 11th International Yoga Day event at Visakhapatnam yesterday.

Responding to a post by Guiness World Records on X, the Prime Minister said:

“Yoga brings people together, once again!

Compliments to the people of Andhra Pradesh for the manner in which they have strengthened the movement to make Yoga a part of their lives. The #Yogandhra initiative and the programme in Visakhapatnam, which I also took part in, will always motivate several people towards good health and well-being.”

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, today laid the foundation stone of the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) and Central Forensic Science Laboratory (CFSL) campus in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, and virtually inaugurated the temporary campus of NFSU Raipur. On this occasion, several dignitaries, including the Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, the Union Home Secretary, and the Director of the Intelligence Bureau, were present.

In his address, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah said that today is a very important day for Chhattisgarh’s criminal justice system, as three new initiatives are being launched to modernize it. He said that these three initiatives will, in the coming days, serve as a foundation not only for Chhattisgarh but for the entire criminal justice system of central India.

Shri Amit Shah said that today also marks the inauguration of i-HUB in Chhattisgarh. He stated that as the youth of Chhattisgarh become MSME entrepreneurs and develop their own startups, it will create greater investment opportunities in the state and accelerate Chhattisgarh’s journey toward an industrial revolution. He added that with the launch of i-HUB, the youth of Chhattisgarh are getting a significant platform. Shri Shah mentioned that an NFSU campus is being established here at a cost of ₹145 crore and a CFSL facility at ₹123 crore, with a total investment of ₹268 crore. In this way, premier institutions of forensic science will now be set up in New Raipur. He further said that graduating from NFSU means a guaranteed job, and NFSU will contribute to Chhattisgarh’s progress in the fields of education and employment.

Union Home Minister said that this year marks the centenary year of former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and the entire credit for the creation of Chhattisgarh goes to the revered Atal Ji. He stated that after the formation of Chhattisgarh, the credit for its development goes entirely to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. Shri Shah mentioned that Chhattisgarh is celebrating its 25th foundation year, and the state government has decided to observe this year as the Atal Nirman Varsh. He also said that in the coming days, New Raipur will be counted among the most modern and green capitals of the country.

Shri Amit Shah said that the Chhattisgarh government has done commendable work to ensure full implementation of the three new criminal laws in the state. He said that once these new laws are fully enforced, justice—from the stage of filing of an FIR to the judgement of Supreme Court—will be accessible to the complainant and the victim within three years, regardless of where in the country the case is registered. The Home Minister added that after the complete implementation of the three new laws, India’s criminal justice system will become the most modern in the world, and we will enter an era of evidence-based criminal justice. Shri Shah said that the Modi government has worked to establish a modern, swift, and scientific justice system through these three new criminal laws. He further emphasized that Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a developed India by 2047 is not limited to infrastructure, industry, innovation, and economic growth—it also includes ensuring timely delivery of justice.

Union Home Minister said that accurate results are achieved only when there is scientific evidence, and with the help of Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs), India will soon be among the leading countries in the world in terms of conviction rate. He stated that the Modi government has abolished 160-year-old colonial-era laws and introduced new criminal laws, under which the visit of a forensic science team has been made mandatory in all crimes punishable with more than seven years of imprisonment. This highlights the immense potential that exists in the field of forensic science in our country.

Shri Amit Shah said that since the establishment of NFSU, 16 campuses have been initiated in a very short time—7 of which are operational and 9 approved, with 10 additional campuses proposed. He said that the Modi government is planning to expand NFSU to 26 major locations across the country. Once these campuses are fully developed, India will produce 32,000 forensic experts every year in the coming years. The Home Minister also mentioned that, according to a survey, the global forensic technology market is currently valued at $20 billion and is projected to grow at a 13% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), reaching $55 billion by 2036. India is expected to hold a 9% share of this market.

Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan visited the ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering (CIAE), Bhopal today.

The Minister addressed the scientists, students, and staff, commended the institute’s contribution to agricultural development, and highlighted the need for accelerated development of farmer-friendly technologies and bringing developed technologies to farmers, especially for smallholder farmers.

Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviewed the work done by the institute in recent past and stressed the need to identify the need of various regions of the country through the network of AICRPs of the institute and plan for mechanization interventions in next ten years so that country can take a giant leap towards Viksit Bharat Abhiyan. He stressed the need to develop small engine operated or machinery operated by alternative sources of energy and promote apart from sensor based systems to have inclusive development of all section of farmers. He desired to organize Farmer’s fair at different locations in the country and a brain storming session with all stakeholders to plan the roadmap of the mechanization of the country in near future. Apart from that he emphasized the importance of food safety, soil health, and effective lab-to-land transfer of technologies.

Shri Chouhan also witnessed and appreciated the recently developed technologies and products of the institute.

The event was graced by the presence of Dr. M.L. Jat, Secretary (DARE) & Director General, ICAR; Dr. S.N. Jha, Deputy Director General (Engineering); Dr. A.K. Nayak, DDG (Extension); Dr. C.R. Mehta, Director, ICAR-CIAE; and Dr. M. Mohanty, Director, ICAR-IISS, Bhopal.

ICAR-CIAE tractor operated plastic mulch layer-cum-planter

Manual operations of raised bed forming, drip lateral and plastic mulch laying, and planting seeds in a plastic mulch are drudgery prone, time consuming and laborious activities, which requires about 29 man-days/ha.

A tractor operated plastic mulch layer-cum-planter has been developed to perform these operations simultaneously.

The tractor’s hydraulic system is used to operate eccentric slider crank mechanism with the help of hydraulic motor (385 Nm) and chain and sprocket transmission system, whereas the vacuum is created in housing of the seed metering mechanism through aspirator blower operated by tractor PTO.

The eccentric slider crank mechanism transmits the rotary motion of driving disc into vertical motion of slider crank through connecting rod and keeps the “D” profile at the end of punch planting mechanism, which opens in the soil.

The pneumatic seed metering plate and eccentric slider crank mechanism are synchronized in such a way that the seed picked by pneumatic metering plate gets dropped in planting jaws, which remains closed by holding seed and opens and place seed after entering into the plastic mulch by means of slider crank mechanism.

The effective field capacity and field efficiency of equipment are 0.2 ha/h and 74%, respectively at forward speed of 1.7 km/h and operational width of 1 m.

The total cost and operational cost of equipment are Rs. 300,000/- and Rs. 1500/h, respectively. The payback period of equipment is 1.9 years (444 h) and break-even point is 70 h/year.

The provision is given in the equipment to match row to row and plant to plant spacing from 0.5 to 0.9 m and from 0.2 to 0.6 m, respectively by mechanical means.

It can save 26 man-days/ha (89%) and Rs. 6,600/- per hectare (43%) in cost of operation as compared to existing drip lateral-cum-plastic mulch laying machine.

It is suitable for planting high value crops in plastic much such as melons, cucumber, sweet corn, baby corn, green pea, okra, beans, etc.

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed the 11th International Day of Yoga (IYD) event in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh today. The Prime Minister led the celebrations of International Yoga Day and took part in the Yoga session.

Addressing the occasion, the  Prime Minister extended warm greetings to people across India and the world on International Yoga Day,  highlighting that this year marks the 11th occasion when the world has come together on 21st June to practice yoga collectively. He remarked that the essence of yoga is “to unite”, and it is heartening to see how yoga has united the world. Reflecting on the journey of Yoga over the past decade, Shri Modi recalled the moment when India proposed the idea of International Yoga Day at the United Nations. He noted that 175 countries supported the proposal, a rare instance of such wide global unity. He emphasised that the support was not merely for a proposal but represented a collective effort by the world for the greater good of humanity. “Eleven years on, yoga has become an integral part of the lifestyle of millions across the globe”, he added. The Prime Minister expressed pride in seeing how Divyang individuals are reading yogic texts in Braille and how scientists are practicing yoga in space. He also noted enthusiastic participation of youth from rural areas in Yoga Olympiads. Shri Modi underscored that whether it is the steps of the Sydney Opera House, the summit of Mount Everest, or the vast expanse of the ocean, the message remains the same,“Yoga is for everyone and for all, Beyond Boundaries, Beyond Backgrounds, Beyond age or ability.”

Expressing satisfaction at being in Visakhapatnam, describing the city as a confluence of nature and progress, Shri Modi commended the people for their excellent organisation of the event and extended congratulations to Shri Chandrababu Naidu and Shri Pawan Kalyan for their leadership. The Prime Minister highlighted that under their leadership, Andhra Pradesh launched a remarkable initiative—Yogandhra Abhiyan. He also specially appreciated the efforts of Shri Nara Lokesh, stating that he has demonstrated how yoga can be a true social celebration and how every section of society can be included. Shri Modi remarked that in the past one to one-and-a-half months, Shri Lokesh has shown exemplary commitment through the Yogandhra Abhiyan and is deserving of praise for his efforts.

Noting that more than two crore people have joined the Yogandhra Abhiyan, reflecting a vibrant spirit of public participation, the Prime Minister emphasised that this very spirit forms the bedrock of a Viksit Bharat. He remarked that when citizens themselves take ownership of a mission and actively participate, no goal remains beyond reach. Shri Modi stated that the people’s goodwill and enthusiastic efforts were visible throughout the event in Visakhapatnam.

Underlining this year’s International Day of Yoga theme,“Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, the Prime Minister remarked that the theme reflects a profound truth: the health of every entity on Earth is interconnected. Human well-being, he stated, depends on the health of the soil that produces our food, the rivers that supply our water, the animals that share our ecosystems, and the plants that nourish us. Shri Modi highlighted that yoga awakens us to this interconnectedness and guides us on a journey toward oneness with the world. “Yoga teaches us we are not isolated individuals but integral parts of nature. Initially, we learn to care for our own health and wellness, but gradually, this care expands to our environment, society, and the planet. Yoga is a profound personal discipline that, at the same time, serves as a collective system—one that transitions individuals from Me to We”, the Prime Minister stated.

“The spirit of “Me to We” encapsulates the very soul of India”, said Shri Modi, remarking that when an individual rises above self-interest and begins to think about society at large, the welfare of all humanity becomes possible. He referred to Indian culture, stating that it teaches us the value of “Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah”—the welfare of all is one’s sacred duty and this journey from ‘Me’ to ‘We’ forms the foundation of service, dedication, and coexistence. The Prime Minister stated that it is this very thinking that fosters social harmony.

Expressing concern over the growing stress, unrest, and instability in various parts of the world, Shri Modi remarked that in such times, yoga offers a pathway to peace. “Yoga is the pause button humanity needs,to breathe, to balance, to become whole again”, he stated. The Prime Minister made a special appeal to the global community on the occasion of International Yoga Day, urging, “let this Yoga Day mark the beginning of Yoga for Humanity 2.0, where Inner Peace becomes Global Policy”. He emphasised that yoga should not remain merely a personal practice but should evolve into a medium for global partnerships. He called upon every nation and every society to integrate yoga into their lifestyle and public policy. Shri Modi envisioned a collective effort to advance a peaceful, balanced, and sustainable world. “Yoga should guide the world from conflict to cooperation, and from stress to solutions”, he added.

Highlighting India’s efforts to strengthen the science of yoga through modern research to support its global dissemination, the Prime Minister  noted that the country’s leading medical institutions are actively engaged in yoga research, aiming to establish its scientific relevance within contemporary medical practices. He underscored that India is promoting evidence-based therapy in the field of yoga through its medical and research institutions. Shri Modi praised the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, for its exemplary contribution in this direction. Citing AIIMS research findings, he stated that yoga has shown significant impact in the treatment of cardiac and neurological disorders, as well as in improving women’s health and mental well-being.

Shri Modi noted that through the National Ayush Mission, the message of yoga and wellness is being actively advanced across the country. He remarked that digital technology has played a significant role in this effort. Over one million events have been registered nationwide through the Yoga Portal and YogAndhra Portal, indicating the remarkable expansion of yoga’s reach across the country. He stated that the scale of events taking place in every corner of India reflects yoga’s growing influence.

Noting the rising global popularity of the “Heal in India” mantra, highlighting India’s emergence as a leading destination for healing, Shri Modi emphasised that yoga is playing a vital role in this development. He expressed satisfaction that a Common Yoga Protocol has been developed to standardise practice. Underlining the efforts of the Yoga Certification Board, which has trained more than 6.5 lakh volunteers, and recognised around 130 institutions, the Prime Minister also noted the inclusion of a 10-day yoga module in medical colleges as part of building a holistic wellness ecosystem. He informed that trained yoga teachers are being deployed across Ayushman Arogya Mandirs nationwide. To ensure the global community benefits from India’s wellness ecosystem, the Prime Minister announced the provision of special e-Ayush visas.

Drawing attention to the issue of obesity, calling it a growing global challenge, Shri Modi recalled his discussion on the topic in detail during the Mann Ki Baat programme and had launched a challenge to reduce oil consumption by 10 percent in daily diets. The Prime Minister reiterated his appeal to citizens across India and the world to join this initiative. Emphasising the need to spread awareness on how individuals can reduce oil consumption by at least 10 percent in their meals, Shri Modi stated that cutting down on oil, avoiding unhealthy diets, and practicing yoga are vital components of a healthy lifestyle.

Calling upon everyone to transform yoga into a jan andolan – a people’s movement, the Prime Minister envisioned a movement that would lead the world towards peace, health, and harmony. He urged that every individual begin their day with yoga to bring balance in life, and every society embrace yoga to be free of stress. The Prime Minister concluded by stating, “Yoga should serve as a thread that weaves humanity together, Yoga for One Earth, One Health should become a global resolution”.

The Governor of Andhra Pradesh, Shri Syed Abdul Nazeer, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Union Cabinet Ministers Shri Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu, Shri Jadhav Prataprao Ganpatrao, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, Shri Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma  were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

On the occasion of 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY), Prime Minister lead the national celebration from Visakhapatnam. He participated in the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) session at the beachfront of Visakhapatnam, alongside nearly 5 lakh participants, while leading the nation in a harmonious yoga demonstration. Yoga sangam events were held simultaneously at more than 3.5 lakh locations across India. This year, special contests such as Yoga with Family and youth-focused initiatives under Yoga Unplugged have been launched on platforms like MyGov and MyBharat, encouraging mass participation.

The theme for this year, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” highlights the interconnectedness of human and planetary health and echoes the global vision of collective wellness, rooted in India’s philosophy of “Sarve Santu Niramaya” (May all be free from disease). Since its inception in 2015, when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted India’s proposal to observe 21st June as IDY, Prime Minister has led the celebrations from various locations including New Delhi, Chandigarh, Lucknow, Mysuru, New York (UN Headquarters), and Srinagar. IDY has since evolved into a powerful global health movement.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh led the Armed Forces in celebrating the 11^th International Day of Yoga (IDY) by performing various asanas and breathing exercises with approximately 2,500 soldiers at Northern Command, Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir on June 21, 2025. In his address, he credited Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for popularising Yoga globally and highlighted that the practice provides a holistic approach to health & well-being. He termed Yoga as a universal solution to the problems faced by people in today’s fast-paced world such as stress, anxiety and depression.

“Yoga gives clarity to the people in chaos. It is an art, a science, a philosophy, and spirituality. Those who practice Yoga in their daily lives have control over their body and mind. It makes us proactive, not reactive,” Raksha Mantri said.

Describing Operation Sindoor as a shining example of that control, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that Indian Armed Forces displayed restraint, balance and precision during the operation, which is a reflection of their inner strength attained by practising Yoga. He stated that India’s social & communal unity was targeted through the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor was a clear message to Pakistan that it will face the consequences for supporting terror activities against India.

“Operation Sindoor is the natural progression of the surgical strike of 2016 and the air strike of 2019. It was executed in such a way that Pakistan requested for a ceasefire, and only then have we put a pause to the operation. As I have said earlier, Operation Sindoor is not over yet. India is fully prepared to take all kinds of action against terrorism,” said Raksha Mantri.

Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that Pakistan wants to weaken India from within, but it should never forget that just like Major Somnath Sharma, Brigadier Usman too sacrificed his life for the unity and integrity of the country. He added that when the nation is celebrating International Day of Yoga, it should remember the true meaning of the practice, which is to connect every section of society with the culture and soul of India. “If even one section is left behind, the wheel of unity and security is broken. Therefore, today, we should perform yoga at the level of society & thought and not just body,” he said.

Raksha Mantri appreciated the inclination of the Armed Forces personnel towards Yoga which has a direct impact on their discipline and focus. Yoga prepares a soldier physically and mentally and its benefits can be seen in the battlefield, he said, encouraging the soldiers to continue practicing it daily.

Reiterating Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s statement that ‘Yoga is India’s gift to the world’, Raksha Mantri stated that it is not just a diplomatic quote, but a vision. Through Yoga, India has given the world a tool which is beyond any border, religion, and culture, he said.

Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that the theme of International Day of Yoga each year – One Earth, One Health this year – sends a global message that India thinks not only for itself, but for the welfare of the world. “The whole world is a family and working for it is a part of our thinking. Yoga is a practical expression of this thinking,” he said.

Raksha Mantri added that Yoga is silently changing the world and every citizen should be proud of the fact that India’s ancient tradition is being recognised and accepted globally. He dubbed it as a responsibility to not just practice Yoga as a trend but make it a way of life. “There is a need to incorporate Yoga as a resolution in our lives. It should be a part of our daily routine as it brings positive changes in everyone’s life,” he said while concluding his speech.

The event was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Lt Gen Pratik Sharma.

All the participants witnessed the Prime Minister’s speech on IDY 2025 which he delivered during the main event from Visakhapatnam. Yoga sessions were also performed at numerous forward locations in the challenging terrain of J&K and Ladakh regions, showcasing the commitment and enthusiasm of our soldiers.

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth graced the IDY-2025 celebrations at PM Shree High School, Kumhariya in Ranchi, Jharkhand. Addressing the students and officials, he underscored the importance of yoga in building a healthy nation. He highlighted the discipline and energy yoga brings, encouraging everyone, especially children, to adopt yoga in their daily lives. He lauded Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s role in promoting yoga globally.

Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and other senior officials of Ministry of Defence practised Yoga at an event organised at the Office of Controller General Defence Accounts in New Delhi.

Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff celebrated the International Day of Yoga at the National War Memorial and Museum, New Delhi. Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit was the Chief Guest, underscoring the Armed Forces’ commitment to wellness and unity.

At Army Hospital (Research & Referral), New Delhi, more than 1,500 doctors, nurses, paramedical staff, and patients enthusiastically participated in the Yoga Day event. As a symbol of commitment to the environment and sustainable health, Commandant Lt Gen Shankar Narayan, Deputy Commandant Maj Gen Amul Kapoor, staff, and patients also undertook a tree plantation drive within the hospital premises.

On the occasion of ‘International Yoga Day’, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah performed yoga with the local residents in Ahmedabad, Gujarat today. In his post on ‘X’ Shri Amit Shah said that ‘Yoga’, which brings unity among mind, body and brain, has today become a part of the daily routine of people all over the world.

In another post Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said, Yoga has been an integral part of the Indian tradition of healthy and fit lifestyle for centuries. Regular practice of yoga makes the body, mind and thoughts free from disorders and transmits positive energy. Under the leadership of Modi ji, India’s invaluable heritage ‘Yoga’ has been adopted by the entire world. On the occasion of ‘International Yoga Day’, I extend best wishes to everyone and appeal to make yoga a part of daily life.

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, participated in a yoga session today morning as part of the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations near the riverfront at Maa Samaleswari Temple Complex, Sambalpur, Odisha. Officials, dignitaries and residents of Sambalpur joined him at the session.

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in a message said that as the time-tested and holistic approach to wellness, Yoga is India’s gift to the world. He expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his persistent effort to make yoga a global mass movement and a tool for global harmony and peace. Shri Pradhan urged everyone, especially the young generation, to embrace Yoga for health and well-being.

Ministry of Education organised mass yoga sessions at the Delhi University Convention Centre and three other iconic locations, Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya, Bihar; Mysuru Palace, Mysuru, Karnataka; and Somanathapura Temple premises, Somanathapura, Karnataka.

In Delhi University, Secretary, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education (DoHE), Dr. Vineet Joshi; Assistant Secretary, DoHE, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, Vice Chancellor, Delhi University, Prof. Yogesh Singh; faculty, staff, Ministry officials and students joined in an intense yoga session.

In Bodh Gaya, the programme was jointly hosted by Central University of South Bihar, IIM Bodh Gaya and State/District administration. In Mysuru, it was hosted jointly by the Central Institute of Indian Languages, Mysuru and State/District administration and at Somanathapura, the event was hosted jointly by the Regional Institute of Education and State/District administration. In these locations, senior officials of the Ministry and District Administration joined students, faculty, and masses in participating yoga sessions.

Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development, Shri 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.”

The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone of multiple development projects worth over Rs  5,200  crore in Siwan, Bihar today. Extending greetings to all present, the Prime Minister paid respects to Baba Mahendra Nath and Baba Hans Nath, and invoked the sacred presence of Sohgara Dham. He also offered salutations to Maa Thawe Bhawani and Maa Ambika Bhawani. The Prime Minister honored the memory of the nation’s first President, Desh Ratna Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Loknayak Jayaprakash Narayan.

Describing Siwan as an inspiring land in India’s freedom struggle, Shri Modi underlined that this land has empowered the nation’s democracy and strengthened the Constitution. He highlighted that Siwan gave the country a great son in Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who played a pivotal role in both drafting the Constitution and guiding the country’s direction. The Prime Minister further acknowledged Siwan’s contribution in the form of great social reformer Braj Kishore Prasad, who dedicated his life to the cause of women’s empowerment.

Shri Modi expressed happiness that the mission of such great souls is being advanced with strong resolve by the Union and State government. He stated that today’s programme is a part of these continued efforts. The Prime Minister announced that projects worth thousands of crores of rupees were inaugurated and foundation stones laid from the same platform, emphasising that these developmental initiatives will lead Bihar toward a brighter future and contribute to building a prosperous state. Shri Modi remarked that the projects will play a major role in the growth of regions like Siwan, Sasaram, Buxar, Motihari, Bettiah, and Arrah. He highlighted that these initiatives will ease the lives of the poor, the deprived, Dalits, Mahadalits, backward and extremely backward communities and extended warm congratulations to the people of Bihar for these projects.

Stating that he had just returned from a foreign visit, Shri Modi shared that during the tour, he engaged in discussions with leaders of some of the world’s most developed nations. He highlighted that global leaders are deeply impressed by India’s rapid growth. The Prime Minister remarked that these leaders see India emerging as the world’s third-largest economic powerhouse and affirmed that Bihar will play a major role in this transformation. “A prosperous Bihar will significantly contribute to the country’s overall development”, described Shri Modi, attributing the confidence to the strength and capability of the people of Bihar. The Prime Minister commended the people for eradicating the era of lawlessness in the state. He observed that today’s youth in Bihar know the state’s condition two decades ago only through stories and anecdotes. Pointing out that they may not fully grasp the extent of deterioration caused during that period of misrule, Shri Modi  emphasized that Bihar, which led India’s progress for centuries, had once become a symbol of forced migration due to the grip of previous regimes.

Emphasising that for every resident of Bihar, self-respect is paramount, the Prime Minister remarked that my Bihari brothers and sisters demonstrate remarkable resilience, succeeding even in the most difficult circumstances. He asserted that they never compromise on their self-respect. However, the Prime Minister noted that the previous regimes severely hurt Bihar’s pride. He criticized these regimes of rampant corruption, which turned poverty into Bihar’s misfortune. Despite numerous challenges, he said, under the leadership of Shri Nitish Kumar, the present government has brought Bihar back on the path of development. Shri Modi cited that in the last 10–11 years, approximately 55,000 kilometers of rural roads have been constructed in Bihar. He added that over 1.5 crore homes have been provided with electricity connections while 1.5 crore households have received water connections. Shri Modi noted that more than 45,000 Common Service Centres have been established across the state, highlighting that new start-ups are now emerging in small towns across Bihar.

Noting that the momentum of Bihar’s development continues to accelerate, Shri Modi cautioned that elements responsible for previous lawlessness are now seeking an opportunity to regain control of the government and Bihar’s economic resources. He stated that these groups are resorting to various tactics to achieve their goals. The Prime Minister urged the people of Bihar to remain highly vigilant, emphasizing the need to keep those who are poised to derail the journey toward a prosperous Bihar far away.

The Prime Minister remarked that while the country has long heard slogans about eradicating poverty, their government has demonstrated that poverty can indeed be reduced. “In the past decade, a record 25 crore Indians have overcome poverty”, highlighted Shri Modi, pointing out that globally renowned institutions like the World Bank have praised India’s achievement. He noted that Bihar and particularly the government under Shri Nitish Kumar has played a significant role in this national success. Previously, the Prime Minister stated, more than half of Bihar’s population fell into the category of extreme poverty. However, in the last ten years, nearly four crore people in Bihar have overcome poverty.

Pointing out that even decades after independence, millions remained poor not due to a lack of effort, but because they had no path forward, Shri Modi attributed this to the long-standing license raj under the previous regime, which, he said, kept the nation poor. He noted that during that time, every service and opportunity was bound by rigid quota-permit systems, requiring even the smallest tasks to be approved. The Prime Minister stated that under the rule of previous governments, the poor were denied housing, while middlemen siphoned off ration supplies. He emphasized that healthcare remained out of reach for the poor, and education and employment were constant struggles. The Prime Minister observed that citizens had to make countless visits to government offices just to secure electricity or water connections. He added that getting a gas connection required an MP’s recommendation, and jobs were inaccessible without bribery or influence. Stating that the worst affected by this system were primarily people from Dalit, Mahadalit, backward, and extremely backward communities, Shri Modi said that while these sections were shown dreams of poverty eradication, a handful of families became millionaires and billionaires in the process.

“Over the past 11 years, our government has remained committed to removing every obstacle from the path of the poor. As a result, visible and impactful outcomes are now emerging”, said Shri Modi. He remarked that over the last decade, more than 4 crore poor families across the country have received pucca houses under government initiatives and an additional 3 crore homes are set to be constructed in the coming years. Shri Modi emphasized that this development has significantly benefited the poor, Dalits, Mahadalits, backward classes, and extremely backward families in Bihar. Under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, more than 57 lakh pucca houses have been built in the state alone. In Siwan district, the Prime Minister pointed out, over 1.10 lakh homes have already been constructed for the poor and affirmed that this work is ongoing without interruption. He stated that housing installments were disbursed today for over 50,000 families in Bihar. Shri Modi expressed particular satisfaction that a majority of these houses are registered in the names of mothers and sisters. He noted with pride that women who traditionally never had property in their names are now becoming proud homeowners.

Highlighting that the government is providing not only housing but also free ration, electricity, and water facilities to the poor, the Prime Minister remarked that over the past years, more than 12 crore new households across the country have been connected with tap water. He noted that in Siwan district alone, over 4.5 lakh families received tap water for the first time. Shri Modi stated that the government is working with the objective of ensuring tap connections in every rural household and adequate drinking water in urban areas. He pointed out that in recent years, multiple pipeline and sewage treatment projects have been executed in various cities of Bihar. He added that new pipeline and sewage treatment plants have now been approved for dozens more towns. “All these projects will significantly enhance the quality of life for poor and middle-class families”, underlined the Prime Minister.

Strongly criticising the track record of the previous dispensation, Shri Modi stated that their actions have consistently been anti-Bihar and anti-investment. He remarked that whenever these parties speak of development, people are reminded of locked shops, stalled businesses, and crippled industries. The Prime Minister asserted that this is why such parties have never been able to win the trust of Bihar’s youth. He stated that these parties have historically promoted dilapidated infrastructure, mafia rule, lawlessness, and corruption.

The Prime Minister remarked that the talented youth of Bihar are closely observing and evaluating the work being done on the ground. He cited the Marhowra Locomotive Factory as a prime example of the NDA’s development model in Bihar. He announced that the first engine manufactured at the Marhowra factory is being exported to Africa, marking a historic milestone. Shri Modi emphasized that this factory stands in the Saran district, which was once dismissed as backward by the previous regime. He stated that today, this very district has earned a place on the global manufacturing and export map.  Criticizing previous regimes for stalling Bihar’s growth engine, the Prime Minister highlighted that an engine made in Bihar will now power trains in Africa, calling it a moment of immense pride. The Prime Minister expressed strong confidence that Bihar will emerge as a major hub for ‘Made in India’ manufacturing. He added that not only will local produce like makhana, fruits, and vegetables reach international markets, but goods manufactured in Bihar’s factories will also find global demand. “The products created by Bihar’s youth will strengthen the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat”, stated Shri Modi.

Underlining that the modern infrastructure being developed in Bihar will play a crucial role in the state’s progress, the Prime Minister  remarked that unprecedented investment is being made in roads, railways, air travel, and waterways across Bihar. He noted that Bihar is consistently receiving new trains, including state-of-the-art Vande Bharat trains. Shri Modi also announced a major milestone, stating that before the onset of Sawan, the land of Baba Hariharnath has now been connected to the land of Baba Gorakhnath through the new Vande Bharat Express. He added that the new Patna–Gorakhpur Vande Bharat train offers a modern travel option to devotees of Lord Shiva in Purvanchal. The Prime Minister emphasized that this train also serves as a vital link between the land of Lord Buddha’s penance and his Mahaparinirvana site, Kushinagar.

The Prime Minister remarked that such efforts will not only boost industrial and commercial activity in Bihar, but will also greatly benefit the tourism sector. He stated that these developments will help Bihar shine more prominently on the global tourism map. He stressed that as a result, countless employment opportunities will be created for the youth of Bihar.

Affirming that the spirit of the Constitution is to ensure equal opportunities for all and eliminate discrimination, Shri Modi reiterated the government’s commitment to this principle through the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’. He contrasted this with the approach of the previous regime, stating that their politics is centered around “family-first” development, serving only their own interests. He criticised them for harming the interests of millions of families in Bihar and across the country for the sake of their own families. The Prime Minister emphasized that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar stood firmly against such dynastic politics, and accused these parties of repeatedly insulting his legacy. He referred to a recent incident involving another party, where Dr. Ambedkar’s photograph was allegedly disrespected, and noted that posters demanding an apology have appeared across Bihar. However, he expressed doubt that any apology would be offered, stating that these parties lack genuine respect for Dalits and Mahadalits. Shri Modi remarked that while previous dispensations place Dr. Ambedkar’s image at their feet, he holds Dr. Ambedkar in his heart. He accused them of trying to portray themselves as greater than Dr. Ambedkar by dishonoring him and asserted that the people of Bihar will never forget this insult to Baba Saheb.

The Prime Minister remarked that the launching pad required for Bihar’s rapid progress has already been prepared through the efforts of Shri Nitish Kumar. He emphasized that it is now the responsibility of their alliance to work together and take Bihar to new heights of development. Shri Modi expressed full confidence in the youth of Bihar, stating that together, they will restore the state’s ancient glory and transform Bihar into a powerful engine of a developed India. He concluded by extending his best wishes for the ongoing development initiatives.

The Governor of Bihar, Shri Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister of Bihar, Shri Nitish Kumar, Union Ministers Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Shri Jitan Ram Manji, Shri Giriraj Singh, Shri Chirag Paswan, Shri Nityanand Rai, Shri Ram Nath Thakur, Dr. Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Shri Satish Chandra Dubey were present among other dignitaries at the event.

Background

In a major boost to infrastructure and socio-economic development in Bihar, Prime Minister laid the foundation stone and inaugurated multiple development projects at Siwan.

Boosting railway infrastructure in the region, Prime Minister inaugurated the new Vaishali–Deoria railway line project worth over Rs 400 crore and flag off a new train service on this route. Additionally, in a major boost to connectivity in North Bihar, Prime Minister also flagged off the Vande Bharat Express between Patliputra and Gorakhpur via Muzaffarpur and Bettiah.

Furthering the vision of “Make in India – Make for the World,” Prime Minister also flagged off a state-of-the-art locomotive built at the Marhowra Plant, for export to the Republic of Guinea. This is the first export locomotive manufactured in this factory. They are equipped with high-horsepower engines, advanced AC propulsion system, microprocessor-based control systems, ergonomic cab designs and incorporate technologies like regenerative braking.

In line with his commitment to conservation and rejuvenation of river Ganga, Prime Minister inaugurated six Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) under the Namami Gange project worth over Rs 1800 crore catering to the needs of people in the region.

Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for water supply, sanitation and STPs worth over Rs 3000 crore in various towns across Bihar aiming to provide clean and safe drinking water to the citizens of these towns.

In a major boost to power infrastructure in the region, PM laid the foundation stone for 500 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) capacity in Bihar. Standalone BESS are being installed at 15 grid substations of the state including Muzaffarpur, Motihari, Bettiah, Siwan among others. The capacity of the battery to be installed in each sub-station is between 20 to 80 MWh. It will save the distribution companies from buying electricity at expensive rates by feeding the already stored electricity back to the grid directly benefiting the consumers.

Prime Minister also released the first instalment to more than 53,600 beneficiaries of PMAY U in Bihar. He will also hand over keys to a few beneficiaries to mark the Grih Pravesh Ceremony of more than 6,600 completed houses of PMAYU.

Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed at a national level seminar on the theme ‘Prosperity through Cooperatives’ based on UN declaring 2025 as the ‘International Year of Cooperatives’, in Mumbai today. The objective of this initiative is to showcase the transformative power of cooperatives in India, fostering dialogue among stakeholders, and charting a course for the future growth of the cooperative sector.

Delivering the keynote address in the inaugural session, Shri Chouhan said, cooperatives are deeply ingrained in the soil and roots of India and that, since ancient times, there is a sense that exists for cooperation for the welfare of the world.

Speaking about agriculture sector, Shri Chouhan said that the importance of farmers can never end. Even today agriculture is the backbone of the Indian economy, the sector contributes 18 percent to the GDP of the country and about 46 percent of the population is dependent on agriculture, he added. Stating that the country has made remarkable progress in last eleven years under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Union Minister informed that foodgrain production has increased by about 44 percent.

Shri Chouhan stated that the roadmap prepared for the prosperity of farmers and development of agriculture sector includes increasing production per hectare, reducing cost of production, fair price for production, proper compensation in case of crop loss, diversification of agriculture and protecting the earth and soil for future generations with limited use of fertilizers. Shri Chouhan said, “We have to decide the path of progress in agriculture sector according to the conditions of the country. Most of the farmers in India have small holdings. Therefore, the small farmer is the focus of our policies”. He further stated that three decisions taken by the Central Government under the leadership of PM Shri Modi are – i) ensuring food security for the country’s 144 crore population, ii) increasing the income of farmers and iii) providing nutritious food to all citizens. Farm models are being prepared for integrated farming and brainstorming is taking place on how farmers can benefit even with small holdings, added the Union Minister.

Speaking about the recently organized ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that it was an effort to connect ‘Lab to Land’ so that the benefits of scientific research reaches the farmers. “It has been decided that this process of dialogue will continue. The scientists of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) will visit the farmers in the field three days a week and provide them with research and other necessary information, and will communicate with them. Agricultural policy cannot be made by sitting in Krishi Bhavan in Delhi”, he added.

During the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, 2,170 teams of scientists went to the grassroots level and interacted with farmers, informed them about various methods of agriculture and research and also listened to their practical problems and then decided the direction of further researches. Many important experiences and innovations were seen during the campaign, which will definitely be taken into consideration while deciding future policies and research. Many serious issues have also come to light during the campaign, the most serious of which is the issue of poor quality pesticides and poor quality seeds for farmers, stated the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister. He added that the central government is going to make strict legislations to take stringent action against those who manufacture and sell substandard seeds and pesticides.

Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan also highlighted the new Market Intervention Scheme (MIS) for TOP crops (Tomato, Onion, Potato). The Union Minister said that if farmers producing potato, onion and tomato go to another state where they are getting higher price for their produce as compared to their area, then in such a situation the Central Government will bear the operational cost of transportation. The MIS is undertaken upon request from State or Union Territory Governments to ensure remunerative prices to farmers and also soften the prices of TOP crops for consumers in the market. There should be a balance between farmers getting a fair price and consumers getting the products at a fair price, he stated.

He added that the central government is making every effort to ensure that farmers get the right price for their produce. After registration by the farmers, toor, masoor and urad will also be purchased, he informed. Pulses, oilseeds and soybean have also been purchased at record levels, stated the Union Minister. Efforts will also be made to provide financial assistance for storage arrangements, he added. Efforts are being made with full vigor to increase the production of soybean and oilseeds, further stated the Union Minister.

Shri Chouhan informed about important meetings on agriculture sector which will be held this month On 24th June, there will be extensive brainstorming by connecting virtually with the scientists of Indian Council of Agricultural Research and other institutions across the country, while a meeting on soybean production in Indore on 26th June, and another on cotton production will be held at Gujarat on 27th June. Further, a special meeting will be held in Uttar Pradesh for sugarcane cultivation. Efforts are being made to find solutions as per the problems and for effective implementation.

The dignitaries present on the occasion included Shri Manikrao Kokate, Minister of Agriculture in the State Government of Maharashtra; Shri Vishal Singh, Chairman, NCCF; Shri Dilip Sanghani, Chairman, IFFCO; Shri Chandra Pal Singh, Chairman, KRIBHCO; Shri Jethabhai Ahir, Director, NAFED; Shri Ajay Patel, Chairman, Gujarat State Cooperative Bank; and Shri Deepak Agarwal, Managing Director, NAFED.

The Union Minister also ceremonially handed over cheques of equity grant to three FPOs supported by NAFED, distributed certificates to 5 FPOs for availing NAFED franchise, released a book on ‘Success-stories of NAFED supported FPOs’ and handed prizes to the winners of a competition organized by NAFED.