On the occasion of the 12th International Yoga Day, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini unveiled a comprehensive roadmap to integrate yoga into the state's education system, recruitment processes, higher education, and sports policy. The announcement was made during the state-level Yoga Day celebrations held in Panchkula on Sunday.
Yoga in School Curriculum
Chief Minister Saini announced that yoga education will be introduced as part of the curriculum for students from Classes III to IX, starting from the upcoming academic session. This initiative aims to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being among students and instill healthy habits from an early age. To ensure effective implementation, the government will provide specialized training in yoga asanas to all Physical Training Instructors (PTIs), DPEd teachers, Post Graduate Teachers (PGTs), and designated Primary Teachers (PRTs). This will ensure that every government school has trained personnel to conduct regular yoga sessions.
Mandatory Yoga Questions in Competitive Exams
In a significant policy shift, the Chief Minister stated that questions related to yoga will become a mandatory component of all examinations conducted by the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC) and the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC). Necessary amendments to the examination policy will be made to implement this provision. This move is expected to encourage candidates to study yoga and promote its widespread adoption.
Institute of Naturopathy and Yoga in Morni
Expanding the state's focus on yoga education, Saini announced the establishment of a state-level Institute of Naturopathy and Yoga in Morni. This institute will offer undergraduate courses in naturopathy and yoga. Additionally, yoga will be integrated into the five Centres of Excellence being developed across universities to strengthen education, research, training, and innovation in the discipline.
Renaming Sports Departments and Including Yogasana
The government will rename the Sports Departments in all higher educational institutions as "Departments of Sports and Yoga," giving yoga a formal place in the academic and sports ecosystem. Furthermore, Yogasana will be included as a recognized discipline under the state's sports policy after the required amendments. This will allow yoga to be treated as a sport for competitions and recognition.
Integration of Ayurveda and Recruitment of Yoga Instructors
Saini also announced that elements of Ayurveda will be integrated into the yoga curriculum to promote a holistic approach to health and wellness. He added that recruitment against the sanctioned vacant posts of AYUSH Yoga Coaches and Yoga Instructors will be expedited to ensure adequate staffing.
Strengthening Cultural Values in Schools
In another announcement aimed at fostering cultural values, the Chief Minister said that the collective singing of the Haryana state song during morning assemblies will be ensured in all government schools. This initiative is intended to foster pride in the state, discipline, and national consciousness among students.
