New Delhi, June 21 -- Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh on Sunday urged people to make yoga a part of their daily routine, saying it promotes physical fitness, mental well-being and a healthier society.
Addressing a gathering at a mass yoga session organised at Chhath Ghat in Kunwar Singh Nagar on the occasion of International Yoga Day, Singh said yoga has evolved into a global movement for health and wellness under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, according to an official statement. The minister said it was a matter of pride that the United Nations adopted India's proposal to observe June 21 as International Yoga Day, helping establish yoga as a worldwide symbol of preventive healthcare and holistic living.
Calling yoga one of India's greatest gifts to humanity, Singh said regular practice helps reduce stress, improve concentration, strengthen immunity and enhance overall well-being.
"Yoga is not merely a physical exercise; it is a complete way of life that promotes harmony between the body, mind and soul," he said. The programme witnessed participation from people across age groups, including youth, women and senior citizens.
Singh urged citizens to practise yoga regularly and encourage their family members to adopt it as a habit, saying a healthy society can be built only when individuals invest in their physical and mental well-being.
Highlighting the Delhi government's focus on preventive healthcare, the minister said the Health Department is working on initiatives to integrate yoga into public health programmes, particularly in the areas of mental wellness and lifestyle management.
He said yoga is also being promoted through various health interventions, including activities linked to Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
The minister stressed the need to encourage yoga among children from an early age and said schools have an important role in developing healthy habits among students.
Singh also underlined the importance of maintaining strong family bonds and caring for senior citizens, saying regular yoga, balanced nutrition, adequate rest and positive thinking can contribute to healthy ageing.
The event concluded with participants taking a pledge to continue practising yoga and spread awareness about its benefits in their communities, the statement said.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.