Haryana Revenue and Disaster Management, Urban Local Bodies and Civil Aviation Minister Vipul Goel on Saturday said yoga should become an integral part of children’s education to help them lead healthier lives. Speaking at a programme organised to mark the 12th International Yoga Day, he emphasised the importance of incorporating yoga into the school curriculum.
Minister's Call for Yoga in Schools
“Children should be taught yoga alongside their studies, so that their bodies remain healthy,” the minister said while addressing the event. The programme was held under the theme “Yoga for a Healthy Life” and “Yoga-infused, Drug-Free Haryana,” highlighting the dual focus on physical wellness and substance abuse prevention.
The event was organised by the Haryana Yoga Commission and the AYUSH Department at Chaudhary Devi Lal Ayurvedic College in Jagadhri, Yamunanagar district. The minister’s remarks come as part of broader state efforts to promote yoga as a tool for holistic health among the youth.
Event Details and Theme
The 12th International Yoga Day celebration featured yoga demonstrations, talks on health benefits, and activities aimed at encouraging a drug-free lifestyle. The theme “Yoga for a Healthy Life” underscores the preventive health benefits of yoga, while “Yoga-infused, Drug-Free Haryana” aligns with the state’s anti-drug campaign.
According to the Haryana Yoga Commission, regular yoga practice can improve physical fitness, mental clarity, and emotional stability, making it a valuable addition to children’s daily routines. The minister’s call is expected to influence educational policy discussions in the state.
Impact on Education Policy
Goel’s statement may lead to further integration of yoga in school timetables across Haryana. Currently, many schools include yoga as an optional activity, but the minister’s push suggests a move towards mandatory sessions. The Haryana government has previously launched initiatives to promote yoga in rural and urban areas, and this latest emphasis on children’s education could strengthen those efforts.
“Yoga is not just exercise; it is a discipline that nurtures the mind and body,” Goel added. The event saw participation from students, teachers, and yoga instructors, who demonstrated various asanas and breathing techniques.
Broader Context
International Yoga Day, established by the United Nations in 2014, is celebrated annually on June 21. India has been at the forefront of promoting yoga globally, and state-level events like this reinforce its cultural and health significance. Haryana’s focus on a drug-free society through yoga aligns with national campaigns such as “Fit India” and “Drug-Free India.”
The minister’s remarks are part of a series of government initiatives to combat substance abuse among the youth by providing healthy alternatives. The Haryana Yoga Commission continues to organize workshops and training programs across the state to spread awareness.
