What is Harit Yoga? Union Minister Unveils New Initiative for Health and Sustainability
Launch of Harit Yoga in Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar: On Monday, Prataprao Jadhav, the Union Minister of State for Ayush, introduced 'Harit Yoga', a new initiative aimed at promoting both individual and environmental wellness.
This innovative program merges yoga practices with tree planting and community clean-up efforts.
The launch took place during the Yoga Mahotsav-2025 event, which marks the 75-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21.
Organized by the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) under the Ministry of Ayush, the event was held at Kalinga Stadium.
Jadhav emphasized that Harit Yoga is one of the ten key events planned for IDY 2025.
To commemorate the launch, he and other dignitaries planted medicinal plants.
He remarked, 'Our health is deeply connected to the planet's health. Just as yoga nurtures our mind and body, tree planting supports the Earth, paving the way for a greener future.'
The minister highlighted India's contribution to global health through yoga, noting its widespread acceptance worldwide.
He mentioned that the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution in 2014, proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to recognize June 21 as International Day of Yoga.
Celebrating a decade of this initiative, Jadhav noted that over 170 countries now partake in this global celebration, indicating that approximately 85% of the world has embraced this ancient practice.
He pointed out that yoga has transcended a mere one-day event, becoming an integral part of many people's lives and serving as a preventive health measure.
During the COVID-19 lockdown, yoga provided a means for individuals to maintain their health while staying indoors.
In his recent 'Mann Ki Baat' address, the Prime Minister announced 'Yoga for One Earth One Health' as the theme for Yoga Day 2025, reflecting India's commitment to global health through yoga.
Jadhav stressed that the pursuit of healthy living should be a collective global endeavor.
He connected the Harit Yoga initiative to Prime Minister Modi's vision of 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam', encouraging individuals to plant trees as a way to foster both personal and planetary health.
He also mentioned the success of the 'Prakruti Parikshan Abhiyan', which assessed the health of over 1.29 crore individuals, earning recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida, who attended the event, remarked that yoga motivates us to lead healthier lives and urged everyone to incorporate yoga into their daily routines, drawing inspiration from Lord Jagannath.
Puri MP Sambit Patra also addressed the gathering.
To celebrate the launch of Harit Yoga, over 5,000 medicinal plants were distributed to yoga enthusiasts.