Gulmarg, June 21, 2025 – Amid the snow-clad peaks of the Himalayas, Indian Army personnel at the High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) in Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir, celebrated the 11th International Yoga Day with a remarkable mass yoga event. Embracing the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” soldiers showcased their resilience and commitment to wellness by practicing yoga asanas in the challenging high-altitude environment, reinforcing yoga’s role in enhancing physical fitness and mental clarity.
The event, held at an altitude of approximately 9,000 feet, saw soldiers performing the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP), including synchronised yoga poses, pranayama, and meditation, against the stunning backdrop of Gulmarg’s rugged terrain. The HAWS, a premier training institute established in 1948, specialises in mountain warfare and winter warfare, making this yoga session a testament to the soldiers’ discipline and adaptability in extreme conditions.
J&K Cabinet Minister Sakina Itoo, speaking at a parallel yoga event in SKICC Srinagar, lauded the growing health awareness in Kashmir. “Yoga brings peace, relaxes the body, and balances the mind—everyone should devote 10–15 minutes daily,” she said, commending the Health Department for promoting yoga and Ayurveda. She highlighted how women and elders are increasingly adopting walking and wellness practices, reflecting a cultural shift toward healthier lifestyles.
The Gulmarg session aligned with nationwide celebrations, including a grand event in Visakhapatnam led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has championed yoga globally since its UN recognition in 2014. The Indian Army’s participation underscored yoga’s integration into military training, particularly for troops in high-stress, high-altitude regions like Siachen and Pangong Tso, where it aids in managing stress and boosting resilience.
A senior officer at HAWS remarked, “Yoga at this altitude strengthens our soldiers’ physical endurance and mental focus, vital for operations in such harsh terrains.” The event also fostered community unity, with local residents joining the soldiers, echoing the theme of collective well-being. Visuals shared on social media platforms captured the serene yet powerful scene of soldiers practicing yoga amidst Gulmarg’s snow-covered landscape, inspiring widespread admiration.
The 11th International Yoga Day in Gulmarg not only highlighted the Indian Army’s commitment to holistic health but also positioned Jammu and Kashmir as a hub for promoting yoga in extreme environments, aligning with the global vision of “One Earth, One Health.”
