Starting on September 30th, the RAF 105th Battalion collaborated with Isha Foundation on a three-day initiative which included a meditation program for the unit, as well as a tree plantation drive of over one thousand saplings in Coimbatore. The Rapid Action Force (RAF) is a specialized wing of the Indian Central Reserve Police Force, which was established to deal with riots & related unrest. In addition to taking up anti-terror operations, the RAF also carries out rescue and relief operations in various parts of the country.

The first day started in the evening with a games session, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Following this, the PR team gave an introduction on Sadhguru and Isha, explaining the significance of the work that is happening world-wide. Eager to have an experience of meditation, the 500 members of the paramilitary unit were then initiated into Isha Kriya through Sadhguru’s guided video.

The second day, the participants practiced Isha Kriya together after an extended games session in the evening. After this, Isha Outreach members gave a presentation about the various aspects of Isha’s social projects. Especially the video on Project Green Hands (PGH) had a deep impact on them - after the video, many of them started enthusiastically clapping and whistling in support of the PGH cause!

At the closing, the Battalion Commandant came and shared that he felt really wonderful after the Isha Kriya and was surprised to experience and feel the impact of a yogic practice just within an hour. He thanked Isha Foundation and said that the RAF would like to participate more in Isha Outreach projects. In addition, he assured that he wants to conduct further yoga programs from Isha foundation for the RAF team and is planning to visit the Dhyanalinga temple with his family.

The following day on October 2nd, PGH & RAF launched a drive to plant and distribute saplings at Vellalore Composting Yard, Coimbatore. The drive was inaugurated by S.P Velumani, Minister for Industries, Tamil Nadu. Other Guests of Honour who were present included, Mr. Rajendren, Commandant and Green Guardian for RAF 105th Batallion, Vellalore; Mr. S Damodaran, MLA, Kinathukadavu; Mr. EEVP Balasubramanium, Talaivar, Vellalore Panchayat; and other local councillors. Around 1000 saplings were planted and over 5000 saplings were distributed to the public who attended the event. The RAF 105th Battalion will be joining hands with PGH in caring for these saplings over the next two years.

An Isha Resident shares:
“The RAF team was very disciplined throughout the program - they were so silent and focused. It was wonderful to see them getting initiated to the Isha Kriya practice and it was a one of a kind experience for me to conduct a class for such a large number of people. Though I was nervous, by Sadhguru’s grace it all went well…”

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