ITANAGAR : Arunachal Pradesh joined the rest of the country in celebrating the International Day of Yoga on Sunday, with Governor Lt Gen KT Parnaik (Retd), Chief Minister Pema Khandu and other dignitaries leading programmes across the state and highlighting yoga’s role in promoting physical, mental and emotional well-being. The Governor, accompanied by State Health Minister Biyuram Wahge, participated in the state-level programme at Lok Bhavan. The event was organised by Indira Gandhi Technological and Medical Sciences University (IGTAMSU), Ziro, in collaboration with the Department of Youth Affairs. Addressing the gathering, the Governor described the International Day of Yoga as a global recognition of India’s timeless civilisational wisdom. He said yoga, once rooted in ancient Indian traditions, has evolved into a universal pathway to holistic health and well-being. Describing yoga as one of India’s greatest gifts to humanity, he noted that in an era marked by stress, anxiety, lifestyle disorders and sedentary habits, yoga offers a simple, cost-effective and sustainable approach to preventive healthcare. Referring to this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing”, he said yoga helps people of all age groups maintain physical fitness, mental alertness, emotional well-being and independence throughout life. The Governor also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s role in securing global recognition for yoga through the adoption of the International Day of Yoga by the United Nations in 2014 with the support of 177 countries. He encouraged people, especially youth and senior citizens, to incorporate yoga into their daily lives. As part of the programme, the Governor distributed copies of his booklet, Yoga for Common Health Challenges, which provides practical yoga-based solutions for managing common health concerns and lifestyle-related ailments. He expressed hope that the publication would inspire individuals and families to adopt healthier and more balanced lifestyles. IGTAMSU Vice Chancellor Prof K Satya Lakshmi also spoke on the importance of yoga and the university’s initiatives to promote wellness. Students of the university presented a synchronised yoga demonstration based on the Common Yoga Protocol prescribed by the Ministry of AYUSH. Personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, Arunachal Pradesh Police, NCC, Scouts and Guides, and officials from Lok Bhavan and the Health Department participated in the programme. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pema Khandu led the state’s celebrations at Jang in Tawang district, where he joined school children, personnel of the Indian Army, Central Armed Police Forces, Border Roads Organisation, public representatives, officials and local residents in a mass yoga session. “Incredible energy at Jang as we celebrated International Day of Yoga with school children, the Indian Army, CAPF personnel, BRO, public representatives, officials and citizens. Yoga unites us in strength, discipline and wellness,” Khandu said in a social media post. The Chief Minister described yoga as India’s timeless gift to humanity, offering a path to physical well-being, mental clarity and inner peace. He said yoga has grown into a global movement under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and urged people to make it a part of their daily routine for a healthier and more harmonious society. Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein also participated in a yoga session in Itanagar along with Education Minister Pasang Dorjee Sona and others. In a social media post, Mein said yoga nurtures the body, calms the mind and awakens the soul while promoting balance, resilience and inner peace. He called upon people to embrace the transformative power of yoga and adopt practices that support vitality, well-being and graceful ageing. The Arunachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly also observed the day with a special yoga session at the Assembly Complex. MLA Hayeng Mangfi, Assembly Secretary Tadar Meena, Joint Secretary K. Jugli, officers and staff of the Assembly participated in the programme. Pasighat: Arunachal Pradesh University (APU), Pasighat, observed the International Day of Yoga with a yoga session on its campus. Registrar Narmi Darang, faculty members, employees, staff and students participated in the programme held under this year’s theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The session featured yoga asanas, breathing exercises and meditation under the guidance of instructors. Speaking on the occasion, APU Assistant Registrar (Academics) Likha Rinchin highlighted the importance of yoga in maintaining physical and mental well-being and encouraged the university community to make it a part of their daily routine. Tawang: The District Administration, Tawang, in collaboration with the 190 Mountain Brigade, celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga at the Gyalwa Tsangyang Gyatso High Altitude Sports Stadium. Among those present were Arunachal Pradesh Industries, Textile & Handicrafts, Labour & Employment and IPR Minister Nyato Dukam, Tezu MLA Dr Mohesh Chai, Tawang MLA Namgey Tsering, Tawang Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, Brigadier Bhupal Singh, Zilla Parishad members, Heads of Departments, students and members of the public. Addressing the gathering, Dukam described yoga as a way of life that harmonises physical health, mental well-being and spiritual energy. He urged people to adopt yoga as a daily practice for a healthier and more balanced life. Deputy Commissioner Angmo highlighted yoga’s role in promoting healthy living, reducing stress and fostering social harmony. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from government officials, security personnel, students and citizens. Yingkiong: The District Ayush Society, Upper Siang, celebrated the International Day of Yoga at the Multipurpose Hall, Yingkiong, under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” Upper Siang MLA Alo Libang, government officials, public leaders, teachers, students and members of the public participated in the programme. Addressing the gathering, Libang emphasised the importance of incorporating yoga into daily life to promote physical, mental and spiritual well-being. He said this year’s theme underscored the significance of healthy ageing and maintaining an active lifestyle. District Reproductive and Child Health Officer Dr Andeng Sitek highlighted the significance of the International Day of Yoga, while the yoga session was conducted by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Awasiya Vidyalaya Headmistress Obul Boli, who guided participants through various yoga asanas and meditation exercises. Aalo: The 12th International Day of Yoga was observed at Gumin Kinn, Aalo, with enthusiastic participation from government officials, students and members of the public. The programme was organised by the District