Associated News Bureau

LG Sinha Leads International Yoga Day Celebrations at Dal Lake, Calls Yoga a Path to Holistic Health

Srinagar, June 21: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday led the Union Territory's celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga, joining thousands of participants for a mass yoga session on the banks of the iconic Dal Lake. Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor extended greetings to the participants and underscored this year's International Yoga Day theme, describing Yoga as a universal practice that promotes physical, mental and emotional well-being. "Yoga truly unites the world and guides us toward a healthier, happier future," Sinha said, adding that true health lies in maintaining harmony between the body, mind and emotions. Highlighting Yoga's relevance in today's fast-paced world, the Lieutenant Governor said modern lifestyles are increasingly dominated by stress and digital distractions, while Yoga encourages self-awareness, inner balance and a deeper connection with nature. He described Yoga as more than a physical exercise, calling it a disciplined way of life that enhances mental resilience, improves concentration, strengthens memory and helps reduce stress through breath control and mindfulness. Referring to global research, Sinha said regular Yoga practice has been widely recognised by health experts as an effective lifestyle intervention for overall well-being. The Lieutenant Governor urged citizens to adopt Yoga as a daily habit, observing that good health cannot be purchased but must be cultivated through discipline and consistency. He said India's ancient tradition of Yoga has emerged as a global movement under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and continues to gain recognition worldwide as a tool for holistic health. Sinha also lauded the efforts of the Jammu and Kashmir AYUSH Department in expanding access to Yoga across urban and rural areas. He said Yoga is playing a significant role in supporting the "Drug-Free Jammu and Kashmir" campaign by contributing to both prevention and rehabilitation efforts. Describing Yoga as a universal science that transcends all social and cultural barriers, the Lieutenant Governor appealed to people to dedicate a few minutes each day to the practice for long-term physical and mental well-being. During the event, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address on the occasion of the International Day of Yoga was telecast live. Among those present were Minister for Health and Medical Education, School and Higher Education and Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo; Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat; Additional Chief Secretaries, Administrative Secretaries, senior civil and police officials, besides a large number of citizens and youth who participated in the yoga session. ANB