Gandhinagar, Dec 22: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Sunday called for transforming yoga and meditation into a mass movement to build a healthy, balanced and peaceful society, stressing that these ancient practices hold the key to physical well-being and mental strength in today’s fast-paced world.
Addressing a state-level event at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar on the occasion of World Meditation Day, Patel said yoga strengthens the body while meditation sharpens mental focus and concentration. The programme also marked the first convocation ceremony of yoga coaches and trainers certified by the Gujarat State Yoga Board.
Distributing certificates to the newly trained coaches, the Chief Minister said discipline and decision-making power required for practicing yoga come from meditation. “In today’s competitive and stressful era, yoga and meditation enhance concentration, decision-making and inner peace without any cost or side effects,” he said.
Linking the practices to national goals, Patel said the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’ could be realised only by building a society with peace of mind and a healthy, disease-free lifestyle. He described meditation as a blessing rooted in India’s ancient traditions, noting its growing relevance in modern times marked by stress and mental pressure.
The Chief Minister also expressed pride that June 21 is celebrated globally as the International Day of Yoga, an initiative spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He said the Prime Minister has consistently promoted yoga, pranayama and meditation as simple and traditional tools for disease prevention and holistic health.
Patel further highlighted the role of Ayushman Bharat, calling it a vital healthcare initiative that provides support and treatment even when serious illnesses occur, complementing preventive health practices like yoga and meditation.
Gujarat State Yoga Board Chairman Shishpal Rajput outlined the Board’s activities and underlined the role of trained yoga instructors in creating a healthy society through a healthy state.
The event was attended by Gandhinagar Mayor Mira Patel, MLA Rita Patel, yoga trainers and a large number of citizens, reflecting growing public participation in yoga and meditation initiatives across the state.
