Demonstrating a strong commitment to fitness, discipline and holistic well-being, more than 65,000 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets participated in International Day of Yoga 2026 celebrations conducted across 215 locations under the NCC West Bengal & Sikkim Directorate from 18 to 21 June 2026.
Organised under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” the large-scale initiative brought together cadets, NCC officers, Associate NCC Officers and staff members in a collective effort to promote physical fitness, mental resilience and healthy living. The celebrations reflected the NCC’s continued emphasis on character building, self-discipline and the overall development of youth.
The flagship event was held at the NCC Training Institute, Kolkata, where the Additional Director General, NCC West Bengal & Sikkim Directorate, Maj Gen APS Chahal participated in the programme. The yoga session was conducted by noted yoga practitioner Visharad Smt Anju Mishra, who led participants through a series of yoga asanas, pranayama and meditation exercises aimed at enhancing flexibility, concentration and emotional well-being.
The event was graced by renowned Indian tennis legend and Olympic medalist Leander Paes , whose interaction with the cadets served as a source of inspiration. Sharing lessons from his distinguished sporting career, he emphasised the values of discipline, determination and perseverance, encouraging the young cadets to pursue excellence in all spheres of life. He also expressed his support for future NCC initiatives related to sports, fitness and wellness.
The celebrations were conducted in line with the national vision of promoting yoga as a means of achieving a healthier and more balanced lifestyle. Through co-ordinated participation across West Bengal and Sikkim, the initiative highlighted the growing awareness among youth regarding the importance of preventive healthcare, physical fitness and mental wellness.
Officials noted that the NCC continues to play a pivotal role in fostering national integration by bringing together young people from diverse social, cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The widespread participation witnessed during the celebrations reflected the organisation’s enduring commitment to developing responsible citizens imbued with the spirit of service, leadership and unity.
As thousands of cadets performed yoga in unison across the Directorate, the celebrations emerged as a powerful demonstration of collective resolve towards building a healthier, stronger and more united nation, guided by the NCC motto, “Unity and Discipline.”
