India Backs UN Move to Declare December 21 as World Meditation Day
New York: In a significant development, India co-sponsored a draft resolution at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to proclaim December 21 as World Meditation Day. The resolution, adopted unanimously, highlights the growing global recognition of meditation as a vital practice for enhancing mental well-being, promoting peace, and fostering sustainable development.
The initiative, spearheaded by Sri Lanka and supported by multiple nations, including India, underscores the importance of meditation as a universal tool to combat stress and anxiety in the modern world. The resolution acknowledges the benefits of meditation in improving mental health, enhancing focus, and fostering a sense of harmony within individuals and communities.
India’s co-sponsorship aligns with its global advocacy for yoga and meditation as transformative practices. Indian diplomats emphasized that the resolution reflects the country’s deep cultural and spiritual heritage, rooted in traditions that value mindfulness and inner peace. The decision to designate December 21, coinciding with the winter solstice, symbolizes renewal, reflection, and introspection.
The adoption of the resolution reinforces the broader goals of the United Nations, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Meditation is seen as a complementary practice to SDG 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages.
The first World Meditation Day on December 21, 2024, is expected to include events and activities worldwide, promoting meditation’s transformative power across cultures and societies. With its universal appeal, the day aims to unite people globally in a shared pursuit of mental clarity, peace, and collective well-being.
