CM Bhajan Lal congratulates Rajasthan cop Devanshi on yoga gold
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Tuesday, 9 June 2026 congratulated Rajasthan Police constable Devanshi Sharma after she won a gold medal in the Senior-B Hand Balance (Individual) category at the First World Yogasana Championship held in Ahmedabad, hoisting the tricolour on a global stage.
Context
In his post, CM Sharma described Devanshi Sharma's journey — from wrestler to yoga practitioner, and from mother to world champion — as an inspiring example of resolve, dedication and self-confidence. He wrote, 'Sankalp, samarpan aur aatmavishwas ki prerak misaal' [an inspiring example of resolve, dedication and self-confidence], calling her achievement a living proof that every goal can be achieved through strong willpower and relentless effort.
The Chief Minister also extended his congratulations on behalf of the entire state, expressing that Rajasthan takes pride in her historic success and wishing her an even brighter future.
Policy Backdrop
CM Sharma linked Devanshi's gold medal directly to the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, crediting his efforts to give yoga a global identity and connect it with ordinary citizens as having given millions a new direction in life. PM Modi had proposed the International Day of Yoga at the United Nations in 2014, leading to its global observance from 2015 onwards.
Since then, successive administrations have integrated yoga promotion into foreign policy, public health, and sports development as a form of soft power. BJP-governed states like Rajasthan have actively linked police welfare and fitness initiatives with traditional practices, building institutional pride around such achievements.
Stakeholders and Impact
Devanshi Sharma, a serving constable with Rajasthan Police, represents the intersection of uniformed service, women's empowerment, and elite sports performance. Her win at the #WYC2026 championship is being held up as a model for women athletes from disciplined services who balance professional duty with competitive ambition.
The achievement is also significant for the broader yoga community in India, as it demonstrates the competitive potential of yogasana as a formal sport on the international circuit, beyond its traditional association with wellness and spirituality.
What's Next
Attention will now turn to whether the Rajasthan government announces dedicated support schemes or incentives for police personnel who excel in international sports competitions. Subsequent editions of the World Yogasana Championship and state-level talent identification programmes for yogasana athletes are also expected to draw greater institutional backing, given the visibility this gold medal has generated.