Parnaik advocates spiritual approach to boost mental resilience of security forces

Itanagar, Apr 18: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt General (Retd) KT Parnaik has emphasized the importance of integrating spirituality with professional life to enhance mental resilience among security forces.

Speaking at the inaugural session of a five-day National Dialogue on Self-Empowerment and Mental Wellness at the Brahma Kumaris International Headquarters in Mount Abu, Rajasthan on Thursday last, the Governor said personnel deployed in challenging environments often face intense stress due to constant vigilance, difficult terrain, and critical decision-making responsibilities.

He observed that spirituality can serve as a powerful tool to address these challenges by instilling clarity of thought, emotional balance, and a sense of purpose. By cultivating mindfulness and a broader outlook, he said, individuals can better manage anxiety, maintain focus, and perform their duties more effectively.

Elaborating on practical approaches, the Governor pointed to techniques such as meditation, self-reflection, journaling, and controlled breathing as effective means to strengthen mental discipline and emotional regulation. He emphasized that while stress is inevitable, it can be managed through healthy lifestyles, structured routines, and supportive environments.

Bringing together self-empowerment, mastery over the mind, and sound stress management, he noted, builds strong mental resilience, enhances clarity in decision-making, and nurtures a sense of inner peace, qualities that are indispensable for security personnel entrusted with the nation’s safety.

The Governor commended the Brahma Kumaris for contributing to the vision of Viksit Bharat envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, noting that true development must also focus on the inner strength and character of citizens. He emphasized the need to promote the timeless values of Yoga, self-discipline, and a balanced way of life, which nurture both physical well-being and mental clarity.

He also called for fostering a ‘whole-of-nation’ spirit, where individuals rise above narrow interests and work collectively with responsibility, integrity, and a shared commitment to the nation’s progress and unity.

Referring to Arunachal Pradesh, the Governor described the state as a symbol of unity in diversity, where people of different tribes coexist harmoniously with strong patriotic values. “Arunachal Pradesh stands as a shining symbol of grassroots nationalism, where cultural pride and national identity go hand in hand,” he said.

The five-day programme, organised by the Security Services Wing of the Rajyoga Education & Research Foundation, aims to equip security personnel with practical tools for stress management, emotional resilience, and spiritual empowerment.