Embassy of India

Antananarivo, Madagascar

Ambassador’s Remarks on the occasion of 11th International Day of Yoga

(Antananarivo, 21 June 2025)

President of the Senate of Madagascar H.E. Mr. Richard Ravalomanana,

Minister of Youth and Sports H.E. Mr. Abdulah Marson Mustapha,

First Quaestor of National Assembly Mr. Rivotiana Richard Jean Bosco, 

Governor of Diana Region H.E. Mr. Taciano Rakotomanga,

Mayor of Antananarivo H.E. Mrs. Harilala Ramanantsoa,

Deputy General Rapporteur of National Assembly H.E. Mr. Raholijaona Harson, 

President of India-Madagascar Friendship Group in the National Assembly of Madagascar H.E. Mr. Andriansolo Augustin,

Honorable Members of the National Assembly of Madagascar,

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Namaste, Salama, Good Morning! I am glad to welcome you to the celebrations of the 11th International Day of Yoga, in this beautiful city of Antananarivo. As you know, Yoga in Sanskrit language means “to join or to unite”, symbolizing the unity and harmony between the body and soul. The theme for this year’s celebrations is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, which aligns closely with India's ancient philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (Whole Earth is One Family)” and also reminds us about the close connection between public health and sustainable development. On this occasion, I would like to convey my deep gratitude to the President of the Senate, the Minister of Youth and Sports, Governor of Diana Region, Mayor of Antananarivo and other dignitaries for their support for today’s event.

2. As you are aware, it was at the initiative of the Prime Minister of India H.E. Mr. Narendra Modi that the United Nations General Assembly had adopted a resolution in 2014, to observe 21st June every year as the International Day of Yoga. In today’s world full of the challenges of wars, ethnic conflicts, terrorism, climate change, life-style diseases etc, the practice of Yoga could help to foster peace and harmony among individuals and nations. It is heartening to note that over the past 10 years, Yoga has grown into a global movement for holistic wellness, embraced by all countries and cultures across the world. In this context, I would like to convey my special thanks to the Government of Madagascar for its support for promotion of Yoga in all the regions of Madagascar.

3. In conclusion, I would like to reaffirm that as a close neighbor and a fellow developing country in the Indian Ocean Region, India looks forward to further strengthening of its centuries-old bonds of friendship and people-to-people linkages with Madagascar. I would also like to assure that in line with Vision MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across the Regions), India will continue to share its developmental experience and expertise, as per the needs and priorities of Madagascar. Once again, thank you for joining us in the celebrations of the 11th International Day of Yoga. Misaotra Tompoko. Thank you!

***