SRINAGAR, JUNE 10 (ANB): Jammu and Kashmir is set to celebrate the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21 with vibrant public participation across the Union Territory, with a special focus on schools and iconic locations to amplify awareness and engagement.
A high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo was held today to assess the preparations for the global event. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Commissioner Secretaries of GAD and Information, Secretaries of Health & Medical Education (H&ME), Youth Services & Sports, Rural Development, Transport, MD NHM, Directors of School Education, Health, and Ayush, among others. Deputy Commissioners joined via video conferencing.
Emphasizing the broader significance of yoga, Chief Secretary Dulloo stated, “Yoga is not merely a physical activity—it is a transformative discipline that nurtures mental peace, holistic health, and inclusivity, transcending age and gender.”
He encouraged widespread participation, especially by schoolchildren, noting that yoga helps cultivate discipline and awareness about personal well-being. Dulloo urged students to lead awareness initiatives within educational institutions and asked district administrations to ensure robust public engagement at the grassroots level.
He directed the Health Department to deploy trained personnel at all event sites and stressed the need for seamless coordination among departments including Youth Services & Sports, RDD, Housing & Urban Development, NRLM, Information, and Transport.
Highlighting the importance of visibility and accessibility, Dulloo recommended organizing yoga sessions at iconic locations throughout J&K to inspire community involvement and promote wellness culture.
“Yoga Samavesh” Outreach Underway
Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, Secretary H&ME, briefed the meeting on the extensive “Yoga Samavesh” outreach campaign, which has been running since March 13 and will continue until June 21. The initiative includes demonstrations of the Common Yoga Protocol in schools and public spaces.
He added that the campaign has prioritized inclusivity, with dedicated yoga sessions held for drug de-addiction patients at IMHANS Srinagar, and for specially-abled students at CRC Jammu (April 30) and CRC Srinagar (May 5).
As part of the build-up to IDY, yoga sessions have already been held at heritage sites including Martand Sun Temple (May 28), Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex (May 22), Krimichi Shiva Temple (May 22), and Sugandesha Temple in Baramulla (May 27).
Signature events like Harit Yoga at Sarwal Park (June 5), Samyoga for medical students at GMC Kathua (June 4), and Yoga Unplugged at GDC Udhampur (May 30) were also highlighted for their outreach and impact.
Mass Participation Expected on June 21
For the main event on June 21, titled Yoga Sangam, J&K will join the nationwide celebrations featuring synchronized mass yoga demonstrations at thousands of venues. Citizens, schools, and institutions are encouraged to register via a QR code linked to the AYUSH portal to ensure coordinated participation.
The Directorate of Ayush has been tasked with logistical preparations including securing yoga mats, attire, refreshments, and deployment of MDNIY-trained instructors across all district venues. DCs were asked to finalize local venues in coordination with law and order agencies to ensure smooth conduct.
The Chief Secretary stressed a unified “whole-of-government” approach, with coordinated efforts and financial backing under the National Ayush Mission. A robust publicity campaign is also being launched to enhance public awareness.
Global Significance of IDY
Since being adopted by the United Nations in 2014, the International Day of Yoga has grown into the largest annual global celebration of yoga, promoting physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” highlights the vital role of yoga in fostering harmony between individuals and the environment.
— ANB
