New Delhi: In a major push to ensure a grand and impactful celebration of the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) in 2026, the Ministry of Ayush convened a high-level Core Committee Meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday.
The meeting was chaired by Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha and brought together representatives from several ministries and departments of the Government of India to formulate a comprehensive strategy for expanding the reach and impact of Yoga Day celebrations across India and the world.
Whole-of-Government Approach for Yoga Day 2026
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to promoting yoga as a tool for preventive healthcare and holistic well-being, Rajesh Kotecha said that International Day of Yoga 2026 will build on the strong foundation laid in previous years while introducing new dimensions of public engagement and international collaboration.
The Ministry emphasized a “Whole-of-Government” approach, with ministries aligning their programmes to support the broader vision of making yoga an integral part of daily life.
Preparations include:
- Structured countdown campaigns
- Digital engagement initiatives
- Thematic programmes on inclusivity and sustainability
- Youth participation drives
- Global outreach activities
- Yoga demonstrations at iconic locations
Key Ministries Participate in Core Committee Meeting
The meeting saw participation from major ministries including:
- Ministry of Home Affairs
- Ministry of External Affairs
- Ministry of Culture
- Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
- Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
- Ministry of Defence
- Ministry of Railways
- Ministry of Panchayati Raj
- Ministry of Women and Child Development
- Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
Representatives from the departments of Health, Education, Youth Affairs, Sports and Posts also attended the meeting.
Amitabh Bachchan Features in Ministry’s Yoga Awareness Campaign
As part of the ongoing awareness campaign, the Ministry of Ayush shared a motivational video featuring Amitabh Bachchan on its official Instagram account.
In the video, Amitabh Bachchan says:
“I practice yoga every day. It has shaped and enriched my life. By embracing yoga, one can live life to its fullest potential.”
He also advised people to practice yoga under proper guidance and consultation.
The campaign is aimed at inspiring citizens of all age groups—from children to senior citizens—to adopt yoga as a daily practice for physical health, mental peace and spiritual growth.
Yoga’s Role in Holistic Health
The Ministry highlighted the wide-ranging benefits of regular yoga practice, including:
- Improved immunity
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Better sleep quality
- Enhanced flexibility and strength
- Consistent energy levels
- Mental clarity and emotional balance
Through educational content on various asanas, techniques and precautions, the Ministry continues to promote yoga as a cornerstone of preventive healthcare.
Senior Officials Present at the Meeting
The Core Committee Meeting was facilitated by Monalisa Dash.
Alarmelmangai D. and senior officials from participating ministries and departments were also present.
Government Targets Unprecedented Scale for IDY 2026
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all participating ministries and departments to work in close coordination to ensure that the 12th International Day of Yoga is celebrated with unprecedented scale, visibility and impact across India and globally.
Observed every year on June 21, the International Day of Yoga has evolved into one of the world’s largest public wellness movements, reflecting India’s leadership in promoting holistic health and global harmony.
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