Port Blair, June 21: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare had designed special programmes for the specially-abled and transgender population, women and children during the occasion of International Yoga Day. The 8th edition of International Yoga Day will also witness an innovative programme ‘Guardian Ring’ that will see the participation of enthusiasts, along with the sun’s movement, i.e. beginning from the east and marching towards the west.

International Yoga Day was celebrated at 25 identified venues and 16 health centres of South Andaman District on 21st June, 2022 from 6.00 AM to 08.00 AM, wherein 20 venues such as community halls of municipal council, community halls of Panchayat, auditorium of educational institutions and other premises arranged by NGOs have been managed by the District Administration, South Andaman in coordination with the Ayush departments, A & N Islands and other line departments. Child Care Institutions like Bethany Children Home, Bathubasti also participated in the Yoga Day programme coordinated by District Child Protection Unit.

All venues were actively monitored by the implementation committee headed by the Secretary / HoD level officers assisted by officials of Revenue, Health, APWD, PBMC, RD, AWW, NGOs & Civic society. The committee had ensured the carpeting, drinking water facility, PA system, sanitation of premises, banners, LED/LCD monitor, first aid / medicines and mobilisation for the general public attending the event.

The Senior Officers of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration inaugurated the events at all identified venues. The Hon’ble Prime Minister’s speech on National Yoga Programme from Mysuru was LIVE streamed at all the venues followed by practice of common yoga protocol.

The PRIs, Govt. officials, general public and NGOs actively participated in the International Yoga Day Celebrations in the District and hundreds of people got themselves enrolled at the venues.