Uttarakhand Emerges as a Global Yoga Hub on International Yoga Day

Uttarakhand's Unique Position in the Global Yoga Landscape

On the occasion of International Yoga Day, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami emphasized Uttarakhand's distinctiveness while addressing foreign delegates. The state is being positioned as a worldwide center for Yoga, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision for the AYUSH and wellness sectors.

During a ceremony in Bhararisain, Gairsain, the Chief Minister warmly welcomed diplomats and esteemed yoga experts from various nations. He presented them with traditional Uttarakhandi caps and symbolic gifts as tokens of appreciation.

The Chief Minister highlighted Uttarakhand as the global capital of Yoga and AYUSH, welcoming ambassadors from countries such as Mexico, Fiji, Nepal, Suriname, Mongolia, Latvia, Sri Lanka, and Russia. He noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, International Yoga Day has gained recognition in over 177 countries since its inception in 2014.

He recalled the Prime Minister's declaration from Kedarnath that this decade would belong to Uttarakhand, serving as a source of motivation and commitment for the state's development. The Chief Minister reiterated the Prime Minister's strategic focus on the AYUSH sector, asserting that Uttarakhand's pristine Himalayan environment makes it an ideal location for Yoga and meditation, with the potential to become a global wellness destination.

Cultural Richness and Traditional Practices

The Chief Minister elaborated on the deep-rooted traditions of Yoga and Ayurveda in Uttarakhand, a land historically significant for sages and healers. The state not only supplies medicinal herbs domestically but also caters to international markets, with many global Ayurvedic companies establishing their presence in Uttarakhand. The region is rich in biodiversity, featuring rare herbs like Kutki, Jatamansi, and Timur.

He also acknowledged the historical Ayurvedic institutions such as Rishikul and Gurukul Ayurvedic Colleges, which have preserved and transmitted Ayurvedic knowledge through generations.

Uttarakhand boasts a skilled workforce in Ayurveda, Yoga, and Panchakarma, capable of producing high-quality Himalayan herbs for global trade. The Chief Minister pointed out the potential for enhancing traditional superfoods like Mandua, Jhangora, Bhatt, Bichhu Ghas, and Kilmora for international markets, emphasizing the need for collaborative research in health and wellness.

Celebrating Uttarakhand's Culture

The event also showcased the vibrant cultural heritage of Uttarakhand, featuring traditional performances such as the Nanda Devi Raj Jat and various folk dances, including Jhora-Chhapeli and Nati, reflecting the rich traditions of the Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Jaunsari communities.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The event was graced by numerous dignitaries, including:
• Mr. Federico Salas, Ambassador of Mexico to India
• Mr. Ricardo Daniel Delgado, Head of Economic Affairs, Embassy of Mexico
• Mr. Jagnnath Sami, High Commissioner of Fiji to India
• Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma, Ambassador of Nepal to India
• Mr. Arunkoemar Hardien, Ambassador of Suriname to India
• Mr. Dambajavin Ganbold, Ambassador of Mongolia to India
• Mr. Marks Ditons, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Latvia in India
• Mr. Lakshmendra Geshan Disanayake, Minister Counselor, Sri Lanka High Commission
• Ms. Kristina Ananina, First Secretary, Russian Embassy
• Ms. Katerina Lazareva, Third Secretary, Russian Embassy
• Padma Shri awardee Yoga Guru Swami Bharat Bhushan
• MLA Shri Anil Nautiyal
• Secretary Shri Deependra Kumar Chaudhary
• Garhwal Commissioner Shri Vinay Shankar Pandey
• Vice Chairman of the State Disaster Management Authority Dr. Vinay Ruhela
• Director General of Information Shri Bansidhar Tiwari
• Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari
• Superintendent of Police Sarvesh Panwar
• and other notable guests.