JAMMU: Jammu & Kashmir celebrated the 11th International Day of Yoga with grand fervor and overwhelming participation, marking a joyous convergence of wellness and spiritual unity.

Minister for Youth Services & Sports, Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs and Transport, Satish Sharma, participated in the mega event held at Gulshan Ground as chief guest.

Speaking on the significance of the day, the Minister said, " under one sky and with one spirit, thousands of yoga lovers from Jammu & Kashmir have come together to spread the message of harmony, wellness and unity." He highlighted the significance of this year's theme titled "Yoga for One Earth, One Health", underscoring yoga's vital role in promoting not just physical fitness, but holistic well-being and environmental harmony.

"India, the birthplace of Yoga, has given the world a priceless legacy, an age-old science that unites the body, mind and the soul," he said.

Satish Sharma noted that more than 170 countries now observe International Yoga Day, following India's proposal to the United Nations. He emphasized how Yoga has become a universal movement for health and inner peace.

"In today's stressful world, students frequently face emotional and academic pressures. Yoga is one of the best tools to overcome these challenges. It helps control stress, calm the mind and reduce anxiety. I urge our youth and masses to incorporate Yoga into their daily routine. It will not only enhance their mental and emotional strength but also build confidence and focus, maintained the Minister."

Acknowledging the efforts of the J&K government in mainstreaming Yoga across all sectors, the Minister said that from integrating Yoga in school curriculums to establishing AYUSH Wellness Centres and launching community outreach programmes, the government is ensuring access to natural, preventive and holistic healthcare for every citizen.

The Minister complimented the Health & Medical Education Department and the Directorate of Ayush J&K for organizing the grand celebration. He also appreciated the contribution of distinguished guests, Yoga practitioners and other participants in the success of this mega event.

The event witnessed the participation of Chairman, District Development Council Jammu, Bharat Bhushan; Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar; IGP Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti; DIG, Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma; Deputy Commissioner Jammu, Sachin Kumar Vaishya; Senior Superintendent of Police Jammu, Joginder Singh, large number of district officers, citizens and students.