Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Golden Jubilee celebrations of Prashanti Kutiram in Bengaluru, Karnataka, an institution that has transformed from a modest yoga center into a massive movement over its 50-year history. The event also marked the birth centenary of H. V. Sheshadri, whom the PM credited with dedicating his life to 'Nation Building through Character Building' and whose teachings about selfless service to society were highlighted.
The Prime Minister emphasized India's growing confidence in presenting its cultural and scientific heritage globally, noting that International Day of Yoga is now celebrated worldwide due to India's initiative, with participation across Australia, Africa, and America involving crores of people. Saudi Arabia has recognized Yoga as a sports activity, and its Sports Ministry has signed an agreement with India's Ministry of AYUSH.
Significant policy developments include the official recognition of Yogasana as a competitive sport in India, with dedicated placement in Khelo India and National Games, creating new pathways for yoga practitioners to participate in competitive tournaments. The government has promoted Ayurveda through research support and patent encouragement, resulting in an AYUSH economy worth lakhs of crores of rupees. Exports of AYUSH and herbal products are continuously increasing, with particular mention of growing global demand for Indian turmeric, leading to the establishment of a National Turmeric Board to strengthen production, quality, and exports.
Internationally, more than 150 Ayurveda training courses have been recognized globally, and Memoranda of Understanding have been signed with 28 countries for Ayurveda expansion. The government has launched the e-AYUSH Visa facility to ease travel for foreign medical visitors and established the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar to promote research and international cooperation in traditional medicine.
The Prime Minister referenced a World Bank report indicating that nearly 50 crore Indians escaped extreme poverty in the past 12-13 years, creating new opportunities for families to prioritize health through yoga with institutional support.