In preparation for the 12th International Yoga Day on June 21, the Uttar Pradesh government has initiated a comprehensive outreach campaign in the rural areas of Varanasi. The campaign includes three-day yoga training camps scheduled to take place across all eight development blocks from June 12 to 14. These camps are designed to train participants in the Common Yoga Protocol and to promote this year's theme, 'Yoga for Healthy Ageing'.
Intensified Preparations for Global Event
The district administration has stepped up preparations for the global event, with the aim of maximizing public participation and spreading awareness about the health benefits of yoga, particularly among rural youth and senior citizens. The initiative underscores the government's commitment to fostering a healthier lifestyle through yoga.
Block-Level Yoga Camps Framework
Chief Development Officer Prakhar Kumar Singh announced that the government has established a framework for organizing block-level yoga camps to ensure the wider propagation of yoga in villages. Trained instructors will conduct sessions in all eight development blocks: Harhua, Kashi Vidyapith, Araji Line, Chiraigaon, Baragaon, Cholapur, Sevapuri, and Pindra.
According to Singh, each block will be assigned one male and one female yoga instructor to train villagers in yoga practices and the Common Yoga Protocol ahead of the main International Yoga Day event. This approach ensures gender-balanced instruction and accessibility for all community members.
Training Schedule and Coordination
Regional Ayurveda and Unani Officer Dr. Arvind Kumar stated that the training sessions will be conducted daily from 7 am between June 12 and 14. Block Development Officers have been directed to ensure comprehensive training in the Common Yoga Protocol for all participants. The structured schedule aims to maximize participation and effective learning.
Officials emphasized that the campaign is intended to encourage healthy lifestyles and raise awareness about yoga as a tool for healthy ageing, in line with this year's International Yoga Day theme. By targeting rural areas, the initiative seeks to bridge the urban-rural divide in health awareness and promote inclusivity.
The district administration is also coordinating with local community leaders and health workers to spread the message and encourage attendance. Additional resources, including yoga mats and instructional materials, are being provided to the camps. The success of this outreach is expected to boost participation in the main International Yoga Day celebrations in Varanasi.
