Yoga is no longer just a personal wellness practice—it’s becoming a cornerstone of public policy in Odisha. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi revealed on Saturday that the state government is actively working to include yoga in school curriculums and public health initiatives, underscoring its importance in building a strong, self-sufficient nation.
Speaking at the state-level International Yoga Day 2025 event held at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, Majhi called yoga a holistic discipline that energizes not just the body, but also the mind and soul. The celebration, hosted by the Odisha Sports and Youth Affairs Department, attracted more than 10,000 participants, including government officials, lawmakers, students, and community members.
Statewide Yoga Awareness and Education Campaigns
“In Odisha, we’re committed to making yoga accessible to all,” Majhi said. “We’re conducting awareness campaigns across schools, colleges, hostels, and sports centers. We’re also considering embedding yoga directly into our educational and healthcare systems.”
This strategic push supports broader efforts to foster healthier lifestyles and mental resilience among the youth. It also aligns with the growing demand for school-based wellness programs, holistic health education, and yoga in public schools.
Notably, Odisha joins a rising number of Indian states investing in preventive healthcare through ancient wellness practices. This complements Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing efforts to promote yoga on a global stage—efforts that culminated in the United Nations designating June 21 as International Yoga Day in 2014.
‘One Earth, One Health’: Yoga for Global Wellness
This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” emphasizes the connection between individual well-being and the planet’s health. “It reflects how yoga nourishes not only human life but also the environment, inspiring harmony with all living beings,” Majhi noted.
The event also showcased Odisha’s rich cultural heritage. The state’s culture department performed the traditional Gotipu dance, and celebrated sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik unveiled a striking sculpture of Prime Minister Modi performing Ustrasana (Camel Pose) on Puri Beach—an artistic tribute to India’s yoga legacy.
With yoga now firmly rooted in national identity and increasingly featured in educational and healthcare strategies, Odisha’s initiative marks a key step forward in mainstreaming ancient wisdom for modern wellness.