In a significant stride toward promoting global wellness, an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) convened yesterday (May 28) at Sushma Swaraj Bhawan in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, to finalise preparations for the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, 2025. The meeting, reflecting India’s Whole-of-Government approach, brought together senior officials from key ministries, Ayush institutions, and stakeholder departments to strategise for what is poised to be one of the largest celebrations of yoga worldwide. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to lead the national event from Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, the committee underscored the government’s commitment to transforming IDY into a global movement for holistic health.
Unified Vision for Global Wellness
The 11th IDY builds on a legacy that began in 2015, when Prime Minister Modi proposed the establishment of an International Day of Yoga at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The resolution, adopted unanimously, marked June 21 as a day to celebrate yoga’s universal appeal and its benefits for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Since then, IDY has grown into a global phenomenon, with millions participating across countries. Last year, an estimated 24 crore individuals took part in IDY 2024 events in India alone, a testament to yoga’s growing influence.
Delivering the keynote address, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare, emphasised the collaborative spirit driving IDY 2025. “The International Day of Yoga is not just a celebration—it is a movement that unites Ministries, institutions, and citizens in a shared commitment to holistic health,” he said. Jadhav highlighted the momentum built through over 250 preparatory events held across India and abroad since March 13, including 76 daily countdown events that have seen enthusiastic participation from various countries. “This is a reflection of the Prime Minister’s vision to take yoga to every citizen, and we must intensify our efforts in these final weeks,” he urged.
Jadhav also acknowledged the pivotal role of Yoga Gurus in shaping the Common Yoga Protocol, a standardised set of practices that ensures accessibility for participants of all ages and abilities. He called on all departments to foster widespread participation through the flagship initiative Yoga Sangam, which aims to synchronise over 1 lakh yoga events across India on June 21. Referencing a recent Group of Ministers’ meeting chaired by the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Jadhav noted that strategic guidance has been provided to ensure seamless execution of the national celebration.
Whole-of-Nation Movement
The Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush set an ambitious tone in his welcome address, describing IDY as “one of the largest global movements” for wellness. He announced that the national event in Visakhapatnam is expected to draw over 5 lakh participants, with the Prime Minister leading the proceedings. “IDY is not a single-day observance but an essential part of the global wellness movement,” he emphasised, citing the Prime Minister’s recent address at the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, where India called for global participation in IDY 2025. The theme for this year, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” aligns with the World Health Organisation’s theme of “One World, One Health,” reinforcing yoga’s role in fostering unity and well-being.
The Secretary outlined ten Signature Events tailored to key sectors, designed to deepen engagement and broaden outreach. These events, ranging from community yoga sessions to educational workshops, aim to make IDY 2025 inclusive and transformative. He urged Yoga Gurus, Ayush institutions, and government bodies to work collectively to ensure the event’s success. “This is a moment for India to lead the world in promoting holistic health,” he said, highlighting the government’s commitment to making yoga a cornerstone of public health policy.
Nationwide Outreach
A detailed presentation by the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) for IDY Coordination provided insights into the extensive preparations underway. The OSD traced the evolution of IDY from a Whole-of-Government initiative to a Whole-of-the-Nation movement, crediting the Prime Minister’s vision for its global reach.
Since March, over 250 events have been conducted, including the Yoga Unplugged series on the MyGov platform, which has engaged participants through online workshops and interactive sessions. These efforts have laid the groundwork for a robust celebration, with the national event in Visakhapatnam serving as the centrepiece.
The Ministries of Tourism and Culture are playing a pivotal role by hosting IDY events at 150 iconic tourist sites across India, from heritage monuments to scenic landscapes. These events aim to showcase yoga’s cultural significance while promoting tourism. “By integrating yoga with our cultural and natural heritage, we are amplifying its global appeal,” the OSD noted. The committee also discussed logistical support, including training programs for yoga instructors and public awareness campaigns to ensure maximum participation.
Monalisa Dash, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, encapsulated the spirit of IDY 2025. “International Day of Yoga is not just an event—it is a celebration of India’s timeless gift to the world,” she said. “As we mark the 11th edition this year, our focus is on deeper engagement, wider outreach, and lasting impact. Through the Whole-of-Government approach, we are working to make IDY 2025 truly inclusive and transformative.” Dash emphasised the importance of reaching underserved communities, including rural areas and marginalised groups, to ensure yoga’s benefits are accessible to all.
Call for Collective Action
The IMC meeting concluded with a unified call for shared responsibility to make IDY 2025 a landmark event. Officials reviewed logistical details, such as coordination between central and state governments, to ensure seamless execution of Yoga Sangam. The committee also discussed strategies to engage international stakeholders, building on the global participation seen in previous years. Countries like the United States, Japan, and Australia have hosted IDY events in recent years, with iconic landmarks like Times Square and the Sydney Opera House serving as backdrops for mass yoga sessions.
The involvement of Yoga Gurus and Ayush institutions has been instrumental in maintaining the authenticity of IDY events. The Common Yoga Protocol, developed with their expertise, includes simple asanas, pranayama, and meditation practices suitable for beginners and advanced practitioners alike. “The protocol ensures that yoga is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level,” said a representative from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, an Ayush-affiliated body.
Looking Ahead to June 21
As the countdown to IDY 2025 continues, the government is intensifying its outreach efforts. Social media campaigns, community workshops, and collaborations with schools and universities are underway to engage younger audiences. The Ministry of Ayush is also partnering with healthcare organisations to highlight yoga’s scientifically validated benefits, such as reducing stress, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing mental resilience.
The national event in Visakhapatnam promises to be a spectacle of unity and wellness, with the Prime Minister’s participation underscoring India’s leadership in the global yoga movement. “This is an opportunity for India to showcase its cultural heritage and its commitment to global health,” said a senior official from the Ministry of Ayush. The event will be live-streamed, allowing millions worldwide to join virtually.
Legacy of Holistic Health
The 11th International Day of Yoga represents more than a celebration—it embodies India’s vision of fostering a healthier, more connected world. By uniting ministries, institutions, and citizens, IDY 2025 aims to transcend borders and cultures, reinforcing yoga’s universal appeal. As the committee concluded its meeting, the message was clear: IDY is not just a day but a movement that continues to inspire and transform lives.
