Bhubaneswar, June 21 (UNI) Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday announced that the Odisha Government is considering inclusion of yoga in school curricula and public health programmes.
Speaking at a state-level yoga event held at Kalinga Stadium on the occasion of International Yoga Day, Majhi said, “Our aim is to build a healthy, self-reliant, capable, and empowered Odisha.”
The Chief Minister highlighted that yoga sessions were being conducted across all districts of the state—from urban centers to rural areas—with thousands of people participating in the celebrations.
“This mass participation reflects the growing awareness among our people and their trust in the path of healthy living,” he remarked.
The yoga event was organized by the State Department of Sports and Youth Affairs and witnessed participation from nearly 15,000 people, including ministers, MPs, MLAs, senior government officials, and citizens from all walks of life.
Majhi described yoga as a priceless gift from India to global society. “Yoga is not merely a form of exercise, but a unique blend of physical, intellectual, mental, and spiritual well-being,” he said.
He also clarified that while yoga originates from Indian culture and yogic traditions, it is not affiliated with any specific religion.
“Yoga stimulates the body, mind, and spirit, and today, it is embraced by people across the world regardless of caste, religion, or color,” he added.
Referring to the global recognition of yoga, the Chief Minister recalled that within six months of assuming office in May 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took the initiative to introduce yoga on an international stage.
As a result, on December 11, 2014, the United Nations passed a resolution declaring June 21 as International Yoga Day.
This year’s theme, “One Earth, One Health,” underscores the intrinsic link between personal well-being and the health of the planet.
“It shows how the ancient practice of yoga not only nurtures the body and mind but also promotes a harmonious lifestyle that respects nature and all living beings,” Majhi said.
On the occasion, the state’s cultural department also presented a traditional Gotipua dance performance.
