"Yoga Is the Pause Button the World Needs": PM Modi at 11th International Yoga Day in Visakhapatnam

News Flash

21 June

Calling for ‘Yoga 2.0’, PM Modi Says India Is Giving the World a Path to Inner Peace Amid Global Conflicts; Bats for Scientific Validation and Global Wellness

Visakhapatnam: In a powerful and philosophical address at the 11th International Yoga Day celebrations in Visakhapatnam, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described yoga as the “pause button” the conflict-ridden world urgently needs, urging humanity to move toward inner peace as a global policy.

"Yoga is for everyone, regardless of boundaries, backgrounds, age or abilities. It has united the world. Let this Yoga Day mark the beginning of Yoga 2.0 for humanity, where inner peace becomes a global policy," said PM Modi, addressing thousands gathered on the Vizag seafront.

Yoga: From Personal Practice to Global Movement

Highlighting the widespread global adoption of yoga, the Prime Minister said millions of people have embraced it as a transformative practice.

“Yoga awakens us to our interconnectedness. Yoga for one earth, one health. Yoga takes us from ‘me’ to ‘us’. India is giving healing to the world,” he stated, reinforcing the spiritual and social depth of yoga beyond physical fitness.

Historic UNGA Milestone: 175 Nations Stood with India

Reflecting on the global journey of yoga, PM Modi recalled how the world rallied behind India when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted June 21 as International Yoga Day.

“When India moved the resolution in the UNGA, 175 countries stood with us — such unity and support is rare in today’s divided world,” he noted, drawing applause from the gathering.

Scientific Backing for Yoga: From Tradition to Evidence

The Prime Minister also emphasised the role of modern science in validating yoga’s benefits, especially in areas of cardiac, neurological, women’s, and mental health.

"India is empowering yoga science through modern research. We are encouraging evidence-based treatment in the field of yoga. Delhi AIIMS has done a good job. Their research shows yoga’s role in treating heart and brain disorders,” PM Modi noted.

He emphasised that yoga is not just a traditional practice but a powerful therapeutic tool, gaining momentum in mainstream medical research.

About International Yoga Day:

• Celebrated annually on June 21

• Initiated by India at the UN in 2014

• Recognised globally, with events in over 190 countries

• Aims to promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being