Uttarakhand CM Dhami Champions Yoga as Holistic Lifestyle at International Festival
Tehri Garhwal, Uttarakhand – Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami underscored the transformative power of yoga, describing it as not merely a form of exercise but a holistic way of life
, during the inauguration of the International Yoga Festival 2026 on Monday.
Festival Highlights & Government Initiatives
The seven-day festival, held at Ganga Resort in Muni Ki Reti, Tehri district, is a joint effort by the Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam and the Uttarakhand Tourism Department. For the past 35 years, it has played a crucial role in spreading the tradition of yoga globally.
Dhami appealed to the youth of the country to integrate yoga into their daily routines, noting its benefits in combating fatigue experienced by those in various professions. He stated, Yoga connects the soul with the divine and helps maintain balance between body, mind, and spirit.
Yoga Policy 2025 & Healthcare Expansion
The state government has demonstrated its commitment to yoga and holistic health through the implementation of the Yoga Policy 2025. This includes the establishment of 50-bed and 10-bed AYUSH hospitals in every district of the state, backed by a financial provision of Rs 10 crore to promote yoga and spirituality.
The festival program includes sessions on yoga, pranayama, meditation, Ayurveda, naturopathy, and spiritual discourses. Special events like ‘Run for Yoga’, ‘Heritage Walk’, and the International Yoga Conference are likewise planned to inspire a healthy lifestyle.
Uttarakhand: A Global Yoga Hub
Dhami emphasized the historical significance of yoga, stating it is a priceless heritage of India’s ancient spiritual tradition
. He highlighted that the practice, originating with ancient sages, now forms a strong foundation for healthy living, mental peace, and spiritual growth across the world.
He also noted the growing recognition of Rishikesh as the Yoga Capital of the World
and the state’s dedication to strengthening this legacy.
Additional Initiatives
- Over 300 AYUSH-based Ayushman Health Centers are currently operational in Uttarakhand.
- Spiritual Economic Zones are being established in Garhwal and Kumaon divisions to promote Ayurveda, Naturopathy, Yoga, and spiritual tourism.
- The Uttarakhand Khoj Yojana was launched to connect every village of Garhwal division with tourism.
Cabinet Ministers Satpal Maharaj and Subodh Uniyal, Parmarth Niketan President Swami Chidanand Saraswati Ji, and Akhil Bharatiya Akhada Parishad President Mahant Ravindra Puri Ji Maharaj were also present at the inauguration.
FAQ
- What is the Yoga Policy 2025?
- The Yoga Policy 2025 is a state government initiative to provide financial support for yoga and meditation centers and promote research in related fields.
- Where is the International Yoga Festival 2026 being held?
- The festival is being held at Ganga Resort in Muni Ki Reti, Tehri district, Uttarakhand.
- What types of sessions are offered at the festival?
- Sessions include yoga, pranayama, meditation, Ayurveda, naturopathy, and spiritual discourses.
The International Yoga Festival 2026 promises to be a significant event in promoting the benefits of yoga and solidifying Uttarakhand’s position as a leading destination for wellness and spiritual growth.