ITANAGAR, 21 Jun: Governor KT Parnaik, along with Health Minister Biyuram Wahge, participated in the International Day of Yoga programme held at the Lok Bhavan here on Sunday.
The event was organised by the Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University (IGTAMSU), Ziro, in collaboration with the Department of Youth Affairs.
Addressing the gathering, the governor said that the International Day of Yoga is a global acknowledgement of India’s timeless civilisational wisdom. He said that yoga, once rooted in ancient Indian traditions, is today practiced across the world and recognised as a universal pathway to holistic health and well-being.
Describing yoga as one of India’s greatest gifts to humanity, the governor said that, in an era marked by stress, anxiety, lifestyle disorders, and sedentary habits, yoga offers a simple, cost-effective, and sustainable approach to preventive healthcare. “Its relevance has grown even more in the post-pandemic world, where mental resilience, emotional balance, and positive living have become essential,” he said.
Referring to the United Nations theme for the 12th International Day of Yoga, ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’, the governor said that yoga helps people of all age groups, including the youths, maintain physical fitness, mental alertness, emotional well-being, and independence throughout life. He emphasised that yoga promotes good health, a calm mind, positivity, and inner strength, making it a way of life rather than merely a form of exercise.
The governor encouraged people of all ages, especially the youths and senior citizens, to incorporate yoga into their daily routine for a healthier and more balanced life.
He also highlighted the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose proposal at the United Nations General Assembly in 2014 led to the adoption of the International Day of Yoga with the support of 177 countries.
“Through sustained advocacy and global outreach, yoga has evolved into a worldwide movement promoting health, peace, and human unity,” Parnaik said.
As part of his continuing efforts to promote holistic health and wellness, the governor distributed copies of his booklet, ‘Yoga for Common Health Challenges’, among the participants. The booklet, conceptualised and compiled by him, provides simple and practical yoga-based solutions for managing common health concerns and lifestyle-related ailments. He expressed hope that the publication would serve as a useful guide for individuals and families, inspiring them to integrate yoga into their daily routine and embrace a healthier, more balancedand mindful lifestyle.
IGTAMSU Vice-Chancellor Prof K Satya Lakshmihighlighted the importance of yoga and the university’s initiatives to promote wellness and healthy living among students and the wider community.
Students of IGTAMSU presented a synchronised yoga demonstration, showcasing agility, discipline, and composure.
Led by Shelly Hage, Toko Ania, Anindita Haloi, and students of IGTAMSU, the participants enthusiastically performed various yoga asanas in accordance with the Common Yoga Protocol prescribed by the Ministry of AYUSH.
A large number of personnel from the ITBP and Arunachal Pradesh Police, NCC cadets, scouts and guides, and officials from the Lok Bhavan and the Health Department participated in the programme.(Lok Bhavan)
