The West Bengal government has made participation in the International Day of Yoga celebrations on June 21 mandatory for all categories of government employees, according to a directive issued by the chief secretary on June 14.
Directive Details
The directive states that government employees will have to attend Yoga Day programmes from 6:30 am to 7:45 am at their respective offices, residential campuses, or designated venues, including Red Road and Milan Mela in Kolkata, if nominated for those locations.
Categories of Employees Covered
The directive applies to all officers and employees of the state government, including permanent staff, contractual employees, part-time workers, daily-wage and casual workers, outsourced personnel, honorarium-based workers, as well as employees of public sector undertakings, autonomous bodies, and local bodies.
Strict Compliance Ordered
The order further directs all heads of departments, divisional commissioners, district magistrates, and heads of offices to ensure participation of all personnel "without fail."
Main Event in Kolkata
This year's main Yoga Day event in Kolkata will be held on Sunday at Red Road, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari.
Background of International Day of Yoga
The International Day of Yoga has been observed globally on June 21 since it was proclaimed by the United Nations in 2014 following a proposal by India. Since then, Prime Minister Modi has led Yoga Day celebrations, promoting the practice as a means of improving physical and mental well-being.
