Imphal, June 21 (IANS) Manipur Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh on Sunday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to promoting yoga as a means of building a healthier, fitter, and stronger society,

Accompanied by Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla, the Chief Minister participated in the state-level celebration of the 12th International Yoga Day 2026 at the Khuman Lampak Indoor Stadium here.

The Chief Minister, in a statement later, said that the enthusiastic participation of people from all sections of society truly reflected the spirit of this year’s theme: “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”.

“We remain committed to promoting yoga as a pathway to a healthier, fitter and more resilient Manipur,” he said.

Khemchand Singh noted that yoga continues to inspire healthy living, inner balance and collective well-being, while contributing significantly to both physical and mental wellness.

The 12th International Yoga Day was observed across Manipur with widespread participation, joining millions of people across the country and around the world in celebrating the ancient practice and its enduring benefits.

The programme began with the live streaming of the main national event from Kolkata, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the occasion of International Yoga Day. The Governor, the Chief Minister, Home Minister Konthoujam Govindas Singh, other ministers, Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel, Director General of Police Mukesh Singh, legislators, senior officials and other dignitaries attended the programme and took part in the celebrations.

The event witnessed the participation of more than 1,000 individuals, including students, government employees, yoga practitioners, security personnel and people from diverse walks of life. Their active involvement underscored the growing awareness of the importance of yoga in promoting holistic health and well-being.

Governor Bhalla also led participants in performing various yoga ‘asanas’ and encouraged people to incorporate yoga into their daily routines. He stressed that regular practice of yoga can contribute significantly to a healthy lifestyle, mental peace and overall well-being.

This year’s International Day of Yoga is being observed globally under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, highlighting yoga’s role in promoting physical vitality, mental clarity and emotional well-being throughout every stage of life.

The observance in Manipur also extended to Lok Bhavan in Imphal, where Governor Bhalla and First Lady Jyoti Bhalla led officers and staff in a yoga session conducted in a serene and disciplined atmosphere. Participants performed a series of yoga exercises and reaffirmed their commitment to adopting healthier lifestyles through regular practice. The celebrations across the state reflected the growing popularity of yoga and reinforced its message of harmony, wellness, and resilience, in line with the broader objectives of fostering a healthier and more prosperous society.

–IANS

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