Uttarakhand’s First Yoga Policy

• 23 Jun 2025

Why in News?

The Uttarakhand Chief Minister launched the state’s first-ever Yoga Policy on the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day at Bhararisain, the state’s summer capital.

• The creation of ‘Spiritual Economic Zones’ in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions was also announced.

Key Points

Uttarakhand’s First Yoga Policy:

• About: It aims to develop Uttarakhand as the global capital of yoga and wellness.
  • The policy promotes the vision of ‘Yoga in Every Home, Health for Every Person’, with support from the Central Government.
• Financial Provisions: Under this policy, the establishment of yoga and meditation centres will be eligible for subsidies of up to Rs 20 lakh.
  • Research activities related to yoga and naturopathy will receive grants of up to Rs 10 lakh.
• Implementation Targets: By March 2026, yoga services will be made available at all AYUSH Health and Wellness Centres across the state.
  • By 2030, five new yoga hubs will be developed across the state.
• Spiritual Economic Zones: These zones will be developed as international hubs for Ayurveda, yoga, and spiritual tourism.
  • These zones aim to create new employment opportunities within the state.
  • The initiative is expected to help curb migration from the hill regions by providing livelihood opportunities closer to home.

International Yoga Day

• About: International Yoga Day is celebrated worldwide to raise awareness about yoga’s benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being, and to promote global harmony and peace through its practice.
• Origin & UN Declaration: India proposed the idea at the 69th UN General Assembly in 2014. The UN declared 21st June as the International Day of Yoga.
  • The first celebration took place in 2015 with the theme "Yoga for Harmony and Peace."
  • The theme for 2025 is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”.
• Significance of 21st June: The date marks the Summer Solstice, the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere, symbolising light, energy, and spiritual awakening in yogic tradition.
• Global Recognition:
  • UNESCO listed Yoga as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.
  •  The World Health Organization (WHO) recognises Yoga as a valuable tool for physical and mental health and included it in its Global Action Plan (2018–30).

Note: India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports classified Yoga as a ‘Priority’ sports discipline in 2015.