PM Modi extends greetings on West Bengal Day; says, “This is the state that shaped India’s history”

New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended warm greetings to the people of the state on the occasion of West Bengal Day and highlighted the historical and cultural role played by West Bengal in the making of India. He stated that West Bengal has enriched the nation’s consciousness through its remarkable contributions across various fields such as literature, music, art, spirituality, science, trade, commerce, and social reform. In his message, the Prime Minister remarked that West Bengal Day is not merely a celebration of the state’s glorious history but also an occasion to honor the values ​​and contributions that have strengthened India’s identity. He noted that Bengal’s cultural heritage and intellectual tradition have played a pivotal role in guiding the nation in a new direction.

‘This date holds immense significance in West Bengal’s history’

Highlighting the historical importance of June 20, PM Modi stated that this date is crucial in the history of West Bengal. He mentioned that it was on this day that the decision was made for West Bengal to remain an integral part of India. Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee made an invaluable contribution to this historic decision—a contribution for which the nation will always remain grateful. He also noted that the country is set to celebrate the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee in 2026, an occasion to specially commemorate his contributions and his role in nation-building.

‘Wishing for a bright future for Bengal’

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the Central Government and the West Bengal Government would work together to fulfill the aspirations of the state’s people and impart new momentum to development. He emphasized that cooperation and coordination between the two governments would be vital in realizing the people’s expectations. Concluding his message, PM Modi wished for the continued progress and prosperity of West Bengal, as well as a happy and bright future for its people. He expressed hope that West Bengal’s achievements would continue to contribute significantly to the country’s development and national advancement in the years to come. PM Modi Arrives in Bengal Today
This marks PM Modi’s first visit to Bengal since the Bharatiya Janata Party formed the government there. He is scheduled to arrive in Bengal at 3:45 PM. During his visit, he will release the 23rd installment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Yojana and lay the foundation stone for several development projects in the state. After attending various programs in the evening, the Prime Minister will spend the night at the Raj Bhavan in Kolkata. The following day, he will participate in a yoga session in Bengal to mark International Yoga Day.

‘Yoga Sangam’ Campaign Sets a Record
Amidst preparations for the 12th International Yoga Day, the ‘Yoga Sangam’ campaign has set a new record. The Ministry of AYUSH announced on Friday that the number of organizations registered on the ‘Yoga Sangam portal’ has crossed the 6-lakh mark. According to the Ministry, this achievement reflects the growing enthusiasm for yoga and widespread public participation among institutions, organizations, and communities across the country.

Bengal Leads in Support for PM’s Campaign
In terms of state-wise participation, West Bengal has recorded the highest numbers, with over 2.76 lakh organizations registering. Rajasthan follows in second place with approximately 1.50 lakh registrations. A large number of organizations from Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh have also participated.

This Year’s Yoga Theme
The theme for International Yoga Day 2026 is ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing.’ This theme highlights the importance of yoga for people of all age groups. It aims to demonstrate how yoga can play a pivotal role in promoting a healthy, active, and fulfilling lifestyle.

New Record to be Set on June 21
The Ministry states that the steadily increasing participation on the ‘Yoga Sangam portal’ is strengthening the spirit of ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (public participation) and establishing yoga not merely as a global movement, but as a celebration of health, community harmony, and social connection. These record-breaking registrations indicate that millions of people across the country could practice yoga together during the International Yoga Day celebrations on June 21, potentially making this event one of the largest mass yoga initiatives ever.