Jaisalmer/Jaipur, Jun 21 (PTI) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma on Saturday said India is witnessing a resurgence of its ancient Sanatan culture under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with notable progress in spiritual, cultural and strategic spheres.
He credited the prime minister with popularising yoga globally and said it was due to his efforts that the practice received worldwide recognition.
Sharma was speaking at the International Day of Yoga function held at the sand dunes in Jaisalmer, where he also performed yoga with locals.
"Inspired by PM Modi's vision, efforts are underway in Rajasthan to develop major religious sites across the country. Significant infrastructure and facility upgrades are being carried out at the famous Tanot Mata temple and Ramdevra in Jaisalmer," he said.
The CM added that alongside a spiritual revival, India had emerged as a global economic and military power.
"This growing strength was recently seen during Operation Sindoor, where the bravery of Indian soldiers drew national admiration," he said.
The chief minister also said that under PM Modi's leadership, work is underway to bring water from the Sindhu and Chenab rivers to Rajasthan. He also highlighted the state's 'Vande Ganga' campaign for water conservation.
Yoga Day functions were organised across the state, spreading messages of peace, wellness, and spiritual unity.
In Jaipur, Governor Haribhau Bagade, Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa and other leaders performed yoga at the SMS Stadium.
The Ayush Ministry and the National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA), Jaipur organised a programme at Jantar Mantar in the state capital.
The event was attended by special invitees from South Africa -- K. Naidu and S Naidu -- who attended as foreign observers under the AYUSH Ministry's Yoga Bandhan initiative.
Students from various states and other countries joined in collective yoga practice, a release said.
Chief guest of the programme and Rajasthan High Court judge Anoop Kumar Dhand said that yoga helps maintain physical, mental and spiritual balance.
"Events like 'Yoga Sangam' not only spread awareness but also give society a positive direction. The NIA continues to reach new heights in promoting India's traditional Ayurvedic systems," he said.
Prof. Sanjeev Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of NIA said, "Yoga and Ayurveda are ancient Indian treasures. Yoga Sangam is not just an event. It is a cultural expression of India's spiritual resilience on a global platform," he said.
Indian Army's southwestern command, headquartered at Jaipur, also celebrated the International Day of Yoga.
A session was organised at Jaipur Military Station with the participation of over 450 soldiers and families.
In Jodhpur, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat participated in the event at Mehrangarh Fort.
"A healthy mind ensures a healthy body. Everyone took a firm resolution today to integrate yoga into daily life," Shekhawat said.
Participants across the state also listened to Prime Minister Modi's Yoga Day address. Events were held at public parks, educational institutions, health clubs, gyms and other locations.
In Bundi, a girl performed yoga mid-air using ropes, while in Banswara, students showcased advanced asanas and group formations.
According to official data, more than 2.25 lakh locations in the state were registered for Yoga Day participation on the Union government's Ayushman Yoga Sampark Portal.
It included entries from government bodies, private organisations, educational institutions, RWAs, NGOs and community groups.