Uttarakhand Celebrates International Yoga Day with Global Diplomats
Uttarakhand: A Global Hub for Yoga
On the eve of International Yoga Day, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami hosted a special event in Bhararisain, Gairsain, where he welcomed foreign diplomats and esteemed yoga experts. The Chief Minister presented symbolic gifts and traditional caps from Uttarakhand to the guests.
During the gathering, he expressed pride in Uttarakhand's status as the global capital of Yoga and AYUSH, welcoming ambassadors from nations such as Mexico, Fiji, Nepal, Suriname, Mongolia, Latvia, Sri Lanka, and Russia. He noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, International Yoga Day has gained worldwide recognition, with over 177 countries acknowledging it through the United Nations since its inception in 2014.
The Chief Minister recalled Prime Minister Modi's declaration from Kedarnath that this decade would belong to Uttarakhand, emphasizing the significance of this vision for the state's development. He highlighted the Prime Minister's commitment to enhancing the AYUSH and wellness sectors, positioning Uttarakhand as a premier destination for Yoga, thanks to its serene Himalayan environment and spiritual ambiance.
Uttarakhand's rich cultural heritage in Yoga and Ayurveda has been cultivated over centuries, serving as a sanctuary for sages and traditional healers. The state is a key supplier of medicinal herbs, not only to India but also to international markets, with many global Ayurvedic companies establishing their presence in the region. The Chief Minister pointed out the state's biodiversity, which includes rare herbs like Kutki, Jatamansi, and Timur, and the historical significance of institutions like Rishikul and Gurukul Ayurvedic Colleges that have preserved Ayurvedic knowledge.
He further mentioned that Uttarakhand boasts a skilled workforce in Ayurveda, Yoga, and Panchakarma, capable of producing high-quality Himalayan herbs for global trade. The state also has traditional superfoods such as Mandua, Jhangora, Bhatt, Bichhu Ghas, and Kilmora, which can be packaged and marketed internationally. The Chief Minister stressed the importance of collaborative research and innovation in addressing lifestyle-related health issues.
The event also featured cultural performances that showcased Uttarakhand's vibrant traditions, including the Nanda Devi Raj Jat and various folk dances like Jhora-Chhapeli and Nati, reflecting the rich heritage of the Garhwali, Kumaoni, and Jaunsari communities.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including:
• Mr. Federico Salas, Ambassador of Mexico to India
• Mr. Ricardo Daniel Delgado, Head of Economic Affairs, Embassy of Mexico
• Mr. Jagnnath Sami, High Commissioner of Fiji to India
• Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma, Ambassador of Nepal to India
• Mr. Arunkoemar Hardien, Ambassador of Suriname to India
• Mr. Dambajavin Ganbold, Ambassador of Mongolia to India
• Mr. Marks Ditons, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Latvia in India
• Mr. Lakshmendra Geshan Disanayake, Minister Counselor, Sri Lanka High Commission
• Ms. Kristina Ananina, First Secretary, Russian Embassy
• Ms. Katerina Lazareva, Third Secretary, Russian Embassy
• Padma Shri awardee Yoga Guru Swami Bharat Bhushan
• MLA Shri Anil Nautiyal
• Secretary Shri Deependra Kumar Chaudhary
• Garhwal Commissioner Shri Vinay Shankar Pandey
• Vice Chairman of the State Disaster Management Authority Dr. Vinay Ruhela
• Director General of Information Shri Bansidhar Tiwari
• Chamoli District Magistrate Sandeep Tiwari
• Superintendent of Police Sarvesh Panwar
• and other notable guests.