Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore today chaired a meeting to review preparations for International Yoga Day-2026, scheduled to be celebrated across the district on June 21 with the objective of promoting health, well-being and a balanced lifestyle through yoga.
At the outset, the DC took a comprehensive review of the arrangements being put in place for the district-level event and discussed department-wise responsibilities to ensure smooth and successful conduct of the programme.
It was informed that the main district-level celebration will be held at the Government Physical College of Education, Gadoora, while parallel yoga sessions will also be organised at Manasbal Park and Sonamarg to enable wider participation from different parts of the district.
Emphasizing that yoga is a simple yet effective tool for achieving physical fitness, mental wellness and inner harmony, the DC called for making the event a true community movement involving people from all walks of life. He directed the concerned departments to encourage participation of students, youth, government employees, sports persons, civil society members and the general public in large numbers.
To facilitate participants, the AYUSH and Youth Services & Sports departments were tasked with arranging yoga mats, uniforms and other necessary equipment. LED screens will also be installed at the main venue for live display of yoga demonstrations and proceedings.
The meeting also reviewed arrangements related to drinking water, sanitation, medical aid, ambulance services, power supply and overall venue management. The Health Department was directed to ensure the availability of medical teams, first-aid facilities and ambulances at all designated venues.
The DC directed the Police to put in place a comprehensive security plan and an effective traffic management plan along with ARTO to ensure safe and hassle-free movement of participants. Speaking on the occasion, the DC said that International Yoga Day is not merely a one-day event but a reminder to adopt healthier habits and lifestyles.
He urged people to embrace yoga as a regular practice for physical fitness, mental resilience and overall well-being. He further stressed the need for close coordination among all departments to make the celebration a grand success and transform it into a district-wide festival of health, wellness and community participation.
The meeting was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner, Manzoor Ahmad; Chief Executive Officers of Sonmarg Development Authority and Wular Manasbal Development Authority, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kangan and officers from various departments, educational institutions and other stakeholders associated with the event.