Aizawl, June 21 (IANS) Mizoram Governor, Gen Vijay Kumar Singh (retd), on Sunday said that the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has played a pivotal role in bringing yoga to the forefront of global consciousness, transforming it into a worldwide movement for health, wellness and harmony.

Participating in the 12th International Day of Yoga Day state-level programme at the 34 Assam Rifles Helipad in Zokhawsang, Aizawl, Gen Singh (retd), a former Indian Army chief and Union Minister, noted that the United Nations’ adoption of June 21 as International Day of Yoga has now reached its 12th year, describing the milestone as a matter of great pride.

He underscored that yoga is a holistic practice that promotes the well-being of the body, mind and intellect.

The Governor said that various yoga exercises offer specific benefits and should be practised according to the Common Yoga Protocol for maximum effectiveness.

“Yoga is not meant for sweat; rather, it is intended to bring harmony within the system,” he said.

The event, themed “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, was organised by the National AYUSH Mission and Directorate of AYUSH.

The Governor noted that yoga does not require excessive time – only adherence to proper protocol and involves smooth, synchronised movements coordinated with breathing, rather than jerky actions. Each posture is carefully designed to address particular health concerns, he said, and further underlined yoga’s universal accessibility and affordability, noting that it requires no special equipment and can be practised anywhere, making it suitable for people from all walks of life.

Health & Family Welfare Minister Lalrinpuii described the observance as Mizoram’s meaningful participation in the global movement for peace and well-being. She noted that yoga brings peace and balance even amid the busy pace of modern life. “Yoga is a simple exercise that everyone can practise. It welcomes all and has a place for everyone,” she said.

Chief Secretary Khilli Ram Meena, who also spoke on the occasion, stated that the Mizoram government is committed to advancing preventive and holistic healthcare through the AYUSH system by integrating traditional knowledge with modern medical approaches for the benefit of the people.

In addition to the main event, International Day of Yoga 2026 was observed at various locations across Mizoram, including district hospitals, health & wellness centres, educational institutions and local organisations, each according to their convenience. Around 300 participants, including personnel from Assam Rifles, Mizo Air Squadron NCC and government officials, attended the state-level programme in Aizawl.

–IANS

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