Historic Launch of the World Yogasana Championship by PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the inaugural World Yogasana Championship from Ahmedabad, marking a significant milestone in global sports. He expressed pride in hosting this event in a UNESCO World Heritage City and highlighted the upcoming World Yoga Day. The Prime Minister emphasized yoga's evolution into a competitive sport and its potential for inclusion in major sporting events like the Olympics. He also discussed the economic opportunities arising from the growth of yogasana and its relevance to healthy ageing. Modi encouraged athletes to become ambassadors of yoga, promoting its benefits worldwide.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 5, 2026, 01:22 IST

Inauguration of the World Yogasana Championship

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the inaugural World Yogasana Championship via a video message from Ahmedabad, marking a significant moment in the realm of global sports. The Prime Minister's office stated, "Today, from Ahmedabad, we are adding a new chapter to the global sports narrative."

A Warm Welcome to Global Athletes

The Prime Minister expressed his excitement about the athletes from around the world who have come to participate in this groundbreaking Championship. He stated, "Ahmedabad, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage City, hosting this prestigious event is a source of pride for our nation."

Celebrating Global Yoga

PM Modi highlighted the upcoming World Yoga Day on June 21, which will feature events in various countries, with the main celebration set to take place in Kolkata. He remarked, "The World Yogasana Championship, occurring just before World Yoga Day, brings a double benefit of health and wellness."

Yoga's Global Journey

Reflecting on India's efforts to promote yoga worldwide, the Prime Minister recalled how, nearly ten years ago, India proposed the establishment of an International Yoga Day to the United Nations, aiming to link ancient traditions with global health. He noted that 190 UN member countries supported this initiative.

Yogasana: A Competitive Sport

PM Modi emphasized the evolving nature of yoga, describing the World Yogasana Championship as a pivotal moment in yoga's transformation into a competitive sport. He expressed optimism that yogasana would gain recognition in major global sporting events, stating, "I am confident that yogasana will be included in the Olympics and other multi-sport competitions in the future."

Career Opportunities in Yogasana

The Prime Minister acknowledged Ahmedabad's role in this inaugural Championship, emphasizing its importance in bringing yogasana into the mainstream sports arena. He pointed out the economic and professional opportunities that will arise as yogasana gains popularity, stating, "As yogasana sports grow, new career paths will emerge for athletes, trainers, sports scientists, and event managers."

Yoga for Healthy Ageing

Addressing the theme of this year's International Day of Yoga, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," PM Modi discussed the relevance of yoga in addressing modern health challenges. He remarked, "Yoga is an excellent option for those seeking to maintain their health and vitality over time."

Promoting Yoga Globally

The Prime Minister highlighted yoga's dual role as both a liberating practice and an accessible health solution. He encouraged global adoption of yoga with a memorable health mantra: "Practice yoga daily, and it will help ward off diseases." He also mentioned the Ministry of Ayush's 'Yoga 365' initiative aimed at integrating yoga into everyday life.

Becoming Yoga Ambassadors

PM Modi urged all athletes participating in the Championship to act as global ambassadors for yoga upon their return home. He stated, "Carry the message of yoga as ambassadors of 'Yoga 365' and connect the world through your experiences and beliefs."

Official Inauguration of the Championship

In a formal declaration, PM Modi announced, "I hereby declare the First World Yogasana Championship 2026, Ahmedabad, open!"