Varanasi, June 17 (IANS) A yoga awareness program was organised at Ravidas Ghat in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, on Wednesday under the ongoing “Gangotri to Gangasagar” campaign, a nationwide wellness initiative led by the Ministry of AYUSH and the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga.

The event forms part of an eight-day campaign marking the countdown to the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY), celebrated annually on June 21. The initiative follows the sacred 2,525 km course of the Ganga river, with Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) sessions being conducted across eight iconic cities and ghats, promoting the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”

Speaking at the event, Uttar Pradesh Minister Dayashankar Mishra highlighted the significance of the initiative and its growing outreach. He said, “This initiative from Gangotri to Ganga Sagar, undertaken through the combined efforts of the Ministry of AYUSH, AYUSH Mission, and Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, has now reached its phase in Kashi and will continue up to Gangasagar. Today’s program is especially significant as it is very close to International Yoga Day on 21st June…”

He further emphasised the larger objective of promoting yoga awareness across the country in the lead-up to International Yoga Day.

AYUSH Department Director General Chaitra V also underscored the national significance of the campaign. She said, “On the occasion of the 12th International Yoga Day, this year’s program is being organised by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. As part of this initiative, the ‘Gangotri to Gangasagar’ campaign is also being conducted…”

The campaign has also seen enthusiastic participation from students, yoga practitioners, and local residents across all regions, reflecting growing public interest in adopting yoga as a daily practice for healthier living.

Officials noted that the campaign is designed not only to promote physical and mental well-being but also to connect India’s cultural and spiritual heritage with modern wellness practices. The initiative is expected to continue across major locations along the Ganga basin until its culmination at Gangasagar.

–IANS

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