Yoga is a symbol of universal aspiration for attaining good health and well-being. Given the context of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, the benefits offered by Yoga have become even more relevant for physical and mental well-being.
At the sole initiative of Hon'ble Prime Minister of India, United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21st June as the International Day of Yoga in December 2014. Since then, International Yoga Day is being observed globally with great enthusiasm and fervor.
Ministry of AYUSH, Govt. of India with the consensus of the experts has developed "Common Yoga Protocol" (CYP) to ensure uniformity and harmony during the observation of International Yoga Day. The CYP comprises day-to-day Yoga practices with the objective to create general awareness amongst the masses to attain peace, harmony and well-being through Yoga practices e.g. Yoga Nidra, Pranayama, Dhyan etc. Digital resources developed and publicised by Ayush Ministry, i.e. CYP Videos, Namaste Yoga app, Y Break app, Yoga Calendar, Yoga Dictionary, may be utilized by the people. However, individuals facing genuine health issues are advised to consult a Physician /Yoga expert before taking up Yoga practice.
This year's International Yoga Day endeavors to connect with the larger global community, as India's G20 presidency theme "One World, One Health" resonates with the principle of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”. Along with global outreach, International Yoga Day will focus on taking Yoga to each and every town and village in India through active participation of Gram Panchayat/Gram Sabhas/ Municipal bodies with promotion of the Tagline "Har Ghar Angan Yoga" by organizing mass yoga Sessions with maximum participation at strategic locations spread over different Islands of this UT.
Accordingly, I earnestly appeal to all Islanders to participate in large numbers by practicing 45- minutes "Common Yoga Protocol" (CYP) drill at any of the nearby venue, arranged by A&N Administration across the Islands on 21st June, 2023 from 6:30 AM to 8.00 A.M as per one's ability, and also to adopt Yoga practice in their daily routine.
Jai Hind!
Admiral D K Joshi
PVSM, AVSM, YSM, NM, VSM (Retd.)
Lt. Governor, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
& Vice-Chairman, Islands Development Agency