Spiritual discipline meets sky as ITBP personnel perform at 14,200 feet elevation during 11th International Yoga Day observance
by Utsav RoySoldiers of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), specifically from the 24th Battalion, carried out yoga exercises at an altitude of nearly 14,000 feet in a remote and inhospitable part of northern India. This high-altitude location, situated around 4,267 meters above sea level, is known for its sub-zero temperatures and thin air with lower-than-normal oxygen levels.
The yoga session took place near the iconic Pangong Tso, a high-altitude lake in the Leh district of Ladakh, on June 21, in celebration of the 11th International Day of Yoga. Visuals from the event capture the ITBP personnel performing yoga asanas along the picturesque but icy banks of the lake, surrounded by the stark and rugged beauty of the Himalayas.
According to available information, the jawans followed the structured guidelines of the Common Yoga Protocol during their practice. Despite the harsh environmental conditions, including chilling temperatures that drop as low as -10°C and oxygen scarcity, the soldiers exhibited unwavering focus, resilience, and a deep sense of discipline. Their participation sent a powerful message: yoga is not merely a physical activity but also a path to inner strength, mental fortitude, and self-belief.
Marking this significant day annually, ITBP jawans engage in yoga sessions at different posts along India’s Himalayan frontier. These acts not only highlight the health benefits of yoga but also serve as a tribute to the enduring spirit of the forces deployed in such extreme terrain.
Pangong Tso, a transboundary lake located between India’s Ladakh and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China, holds strategic importance. A portion of this lake lies within Chinese territory, and the region remains geopolitically sensitive. ITBP personnel stationed here maintain round-the-clock vigilance, playing a vital role in safeguarding India’s border interests while also showcasing the harmony between physical wellness and national service.