State leaders mark Intll Yoga Day, highlights yoga benefits

Pioneer News Service
Ranchi

The 12th International Yoga Day was celebrated across the state, including Ranchi. Special yoga practice sessions were organized at schools, colleges, medical and nursing colleges, as well as in government and non-government institutions. The state-level event was held at Golden Jubilee Convocation Hall of Ranchi University.

At the state-level Yoga Day event, Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari, former minister and Ranchi BJP MLA C.P. Singh, Additional Chief Secretary (Health Department) Ajay Kumar Singh, National Health Mission (Jharkhand) Director Shashi Prakash Jha, State Drug Controller Ritu Sahay, Ranchi University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Saroj Sharma, and Jharkhand Congress President Keshav Mahto Kamlesh practiced yoga asanas. Dr. Archana Kumari, a yoga instructor at the State Yoga Centre, conducted the yoga session in accordance with the International Yoga Day protocol.

Additionally, a live broadcast of PM Modi performing yoga in Kolkata was screened on LED displays at the event venue. The official theme for the 12th International Yoga Day is “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” This theme focuses on the vital role yoga plays in maintaining physical mobility, mental peace, self-reliance, and a quality life as one ages.

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth stated that yoga gained international recognition through PM Modi’s efforts, leading to its annual observance since June 21, 2015. Urging the people of the state and the country to practice yoga daily, Seth remarked that it not only keeps the body and mind healthy but also contributes to the well-being of society, the state, the nation, and the world at large.

 Health Minister Irfan Ansari stated that good health is the greatest asset of human life, noting that yoga helps us stay healthy. He stated that today, everyone witnessed and heard PM Modi’s serious commitment to yoga, and his message would be implemented in Jharkhand. The Health Minister remarked that yoga is not a recent phenomenon but an ancient practice, embodying the wisdom of our sages and seers. Although it has undergone various modifications over time and gym culture has gained popularity, yoga remains accessible even to those who cannot attend a gym.

At the state-level International Yoga Day event, while most attendees wore white T-shirts and trousers, CP Singh was dressed in black. Irfan Ansari asked him if he was observing a “Black Day” by wearing a black outfit. In response, CP Singh remarked that the color of one’s attire matters little; one’s thoughts are shaped by one’s mindset.

Singh said that after Narendra Modi became Prime Minister, he championed yoga on the global stage, leading to the annual observance of International Yoga Day on June 21.

Special yoga programs were organized in government and private schools across Jharkhand to mark International Yoga Day. Following directives from the Education Department, many schools cancelled the holiday to conduct yoga sessions involving students, teachers, and parents. Participants were also informed about the physical, mental, and spiritual benefits of yoga. Additionally, several schools organized yoga awareness rallies, essay competitions, and health-related programs.