Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami took part in the International Yoga Festival 2026 held at Ganga Resort, Muni Ki Reti in Tehri district on March 16. During his address, he emphasized that yoga transcends being a mere physical activity; it embodies a comprehensive lifestyle that fosters a connection between the soul and the divine.

He urged the state’s youth to incorporate yoga into their daily routines, highlighting that individuals in various professions often face exhaustion, with yoga being a valuable tool for enhancing both physical strength and mental health.

Government Initiatives to Promote Yoga

The Chief Minister announced the introduction of the Yoga Policy 2025, alongside the establishment of 50-bed and 10-bed AYUSH hospitals across all districts in the state. He mentioned the allocation of Rs 10 crore aimed at advancing yoga practices and spiritual teachings. The International Yoga Festival is collaboratively organized by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam and the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. This event, which has been ongoing for 35 years, plays a significant role in disseminating yoga traditions globally. It spans seven days and features various sessions on yoga, pranayama, meditation, Ayurveda, and naturopathy, along with spiritual discussions.

Festivities and Global Reach of Yoga

The festival includes activities such as Run for Yoga, a Heritage Walk, and an International Yoga Conference designed to encourage individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles. CM Dhami emphasized that yoga constitutes an invaluable aspect of India’s ancient spiritual heritage, noting how sages and seers established a path for harmony among body, mind, and spirit. He also highlighted the worldwide increase in yoga’s popularity, referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s suggestion to the United Nations in 2014 to recognize June 21 as the International Day of Yoga. This initiative has led to millions engaging in yoga practices across more than 180 countries.

Uttarakhand: A Hub for Yoga Practice

Describing Uttarakhand’s unique attributes, Dhami stated that the state is recognized not only as “Devbhoomi” (Land of the Gods) but also as “Yogbhoomi” (Land of Yoga). The region’s sacred rivers, tranquil surroundings, and clean climate create an ideal environment for yoga practices. Each year, thousands of visitors from around the globe come to Uttarakhand to engage in yoga and meditation. Furthermore, the city of Rishikesh is globally celebrated as the “Yoga Capital of the World.”

Strengthening AYUSH Services in Uttarakhand

In his address, the Chief Minister noted that the state currently operates over 300 AYUSH-based Ayushman Arogya Centres, and the establishment of additional AYUSH hospitals is underway. The eSanjeevani Portal has also been implemented to provide citizens with access to AYUSH consultations. The Uttarakhand AYUSH Policy aims to enhance medicine manufacturing, education, research, and the cultivation of medicinal plants. Additionally, the state plans to develop one Spiritual Economic Zone each in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions to promote Ayurveda, naturopathy, and spiritual tourism.

Launch of the Uttarakhand Khoj Yojana

During the festival, the Chief Minister virtually inaugurated the Uttarakhand Khoj Yojana, targeting the enhancement of tourism connectivity for villages in the Garhwal region. Tourism Minister Satpal Maharaj highlighted the significance of yoga in India’s ancient traditions, asserting that sages historically achieved profound spiritual insights through yoga practice. Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal remarked on the positive health impacts of yoga and its vital role in shaping the region’s identity.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share