Centenarian Lt. Gen. MS Sodhi Marks Yoga Day with Army Troops

NEW DELHI — Lieutenant General MS Sodhi, the Indian Army’s retired Signal Officer-in-Chief, captured national attention this week as he participated in the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) celebrations. Now in his 100th year, the veteran officer joined serving soldiers of the Corps of Signals in New Delhi on Sunday, June 21, 2026, to perform yoga, highlighting the practice's role in maintaining physical and mental resilience across generations.

The event featured a joint demonstration between Lt. Gen. Sodhi and the current Signal Officer-in-Chief, Lieutenant General Vivek Dogra. The session served as a focal point for the 2026 theme, "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," which emphasizes the practice’s efficacy in promoting vitality and mobility in advancing age.

A Living Example of "Yoga for Healthy Ageing"

The participation of a centenarian in a military-led yoga session underscored the Ministry of Ayush's core objective for this year’s celebrations: demonstrating that yoga is an accessible, sustainable path toward holistic health for all age groups. According to official reports, the session included family members of serving soldiers, further fostering the event's community-focused spirit.

Throughout the lead-up to the 12th International Day of Yoga, the Indian government promoted a nationwide 100-day countdown, engaging thousands of organizations and cities. The practice, as noted by government officials, has evolved into a strategic soft-power tool for India, promoting wellness and preventive healthcare both domestically and internationally.

Army-Wide Participation

The celebration extended well beyond the national capital. Across the country, the Indian Army marked the day with high-altitude and border-region demonstrations:

• Siachen Glacier: The "Siachen Sniffers," the Army’s specialized dog unit, along with their handlers, performed yoga exercises in sub-zero temperatures at the world’s highest battlefield, showcasing endurance in extreme conditions.

• New Delhi: Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS) Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth led a mass session at Cariappa Ground, attended by over 3,500 participants, including NCC cadets and defence attachés from 17 countries.

Quote Section

According to officials, "The participation of veterans alongside serving troops highlights the enduring relevance of yoga as a discipline. It remains an integral part of the force’s fitness culture, promoting mental focus, resilience, and operational readiness."

Why It Matters

For citizens, the image of a 100-year-old general practicing yoga serves as a compelling narrative for the benefits of traditional Indian wellness practices. In a modern context, where lifestyle-related health challenges are increasing, the focus on "Healthy Ageing" encourages all demographics to view yoga as a preventive health tool. By integrating these practices into military training, the Indian Armed Forces also reinforce the importance of maintaining physical and cognitive longevity for personnel.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Centenarian Participation: Lt. Gen. MS Sodhi, retired Signal Officer-in-Chief, performed yoga at age 100.

• Theme: "Yoga for Healthy Ageing" (aligned with the WHO Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021–2030).

• Scale: Over 6 lakh organizations registered nationwide to participate in synchronized yoga protocols.

• National Reach: Celebrations held across iconic locations, including border outposts and Siachen Glacier.

FAQ

1. Why is the 2026 theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing"?

The theme highlights yoga’s ability to promote physical vitality, mental resilience, and independence among older adults, aligning with global health goals.

2. Where was the main celebration held?

While events occurred nationwide, the main national celebration for IDY 2026 took place in Kolkata, West Bengal.

3. What is the "Common Yoga Protocol" mentioned in reports?

It is a standardized 45-minute sequence of yoga practices developed by the Ministry of Ayush, designed for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Official Sources

• Ministry of Ayush

• Press Information Bureau (PIB)

• Indian Army (ADG PI)