Jammu, June 21:-
In a grand celebration of wellness and spiritual unity, the 11th International Day of Yoga was commemorated across Jammu & Kashmir with enthusiasm and large-scale participation.
The main function was attended by Minister for Youth Services & Sports, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FCS&CA), Information Technology, and Transport, Satish Sharma.
Tihe Minister extended warm greetings to esteemed dignitaries, distinguished guests, officials from the Health & Medical Education Department, Directorate of Ayush J&K, yoga practitioners, participants, and all attendees.
Speaking on the significance of the day, the Minister said,” under one sky and with one spirit, thousands of yoga lovers from Jammu & Kashmir have come together to spread the message of harmony, wellness, and unity.”
He highlighted the theme for this year—“Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, underscoring yoga’s vital role in promoting not just physical fitness, but holistic well-being and environmental harmony.
“India, the birthplace of Yoga, has given the world a priceless legacy—an age-old science that unites the body, mind, and soul,” he said. “Yoga is more than a physical practice; it is a way of life, a philosophy that teaches discipline, mindfulness, compassion, and balance.”,the Minister emphasised.
The Minister noted that more than 170 countries now observe International Yoga Day, following India’s proposal to the United Nations. He emphasized how Yoga has become a universal movement for health and inner peace.
Addressing the youth and students specifically, Shri Sharma said”
In today’s stressful world, students frequently face emotional and academic pressures. Yoga is one of the best tools to overcome these challenges. It helps control stress, calms the mind, and reduces anxiety. I urge our youth and masses to incorporate yoga into their daily routine. It will not only enhance their mental and emotional strength but also build confidence and focus.”
The Minister also reflected on the three essential components of yoga—Dhyana (meditation), Pranayama (breath control), and Asanas (physical postures)—and their role in enhancing physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. He elaborated on the Sanskrit root “Yuj”, from which the word Yoga originates, meaning to unite or to join, symbolizing the union of mind, body, and spirit.
While acknowledging the efforts of the Government of Jammu & Kashmir under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Sahib in mainstreaming yoga across all sectors,the Minister said that from integrating yoga in school curriculums to establishing AYUSH Wellness Centres and launching community outreach programmes, the government is ensuring access to natural, preventive, and holistic healthcare for every citizen.”Our collective mission is to build a healthy, conscious, and united society. The government remains committed to promoting Yoga and Ayush systems across the UT,” he affirmed.
The Minister complimented Health & Medical Education Department and the Directorate of Ayush J&K for organizing the grand celebration and bringing together thousands of participants.
While appealing the participants and people in general to adopt Yoga in thier life, Satish Sharma said,”Let us not restrict yoga to a one-day celebration. I appeal to everyone—especially my dear people of Jammu & Kashmir—to make yoga a lifelong habit. Let us take forward the vision of a healthy, happy, united, and prosperous Jammu & Kashmir.”
