The Ministry of Ayush has initiated preparations for the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 by convening a high-level Inter-Ministerial Committee meeting in New Delhi, bringing together senior government officials, yoga experts, and representatives from various institutions.
Chairing the meeting, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, said yoga has transformed into a nationwide people’s movement promoting healthier lifestyles. He stressed that IDY 2026 will be driven as a “whole-of-government, whole-of-society” initiative with broad-based participation.
Highlighting India’s global role, the Minister noted that since its adoption by the United Nations in 2014, International Day of Yoga has reached over 190 countries, inspiring millions to embrace yoga for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. He called for coordinated efforts across ministries to ensure wider participation, especially through schools, workplaces, rural outreach, and digital platforms.
The Ministry of External Affairs assured full global support for the initiative, stating that Indian missions abroad will play a key role in expanding outreach activities. It also highlighted the growing international adoption of yoga, citing successful initiatives such as long-term practice programmes in Japan.
Senior officials from the Ayush Ministry described yoga as a global wellness movement rooted in India’s cultural heritage, noting its evolution into a sustained campaign for holistic health beyond a single-day event.
Experts and yoga leaders at the meeting pointed to the rising global participation in IDY, which crossed 26 crore participants last year, with expectations of further growth in 2026. They also emphasized yoga’s proven benefits in managing lifestyle-related diseases and improving overall well-being.
The meeting concluded with a call for coordinated, inclusive, and innovation-driven efforts to make IDY 2026 a landmark global event, strengthening India’s leadership in promoting yoga as a universal pathway to health and harmony.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
