The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Sunday celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga at Mausam Bhawan in New Delhi, reinforcing the importance of holistic health, mindfulness and healthy ageing through the practice of yoga.
Held under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” the event brought together officials and staff members of the Ministry and IMD, who participated in yoga sessions and wellness activities aimed at promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and a healthier lifestyle.
The programme began with participants joining the nation in watching the live telecast of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s address on the occasion of International Yoga Day. This was followed by a demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol, during which expert instructors guided attendees through various yoga asanas and pranayama techniques.
Addressing the gathering, IMD Director General Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra highlighted the need to make yoga a part of everyday life rather than viewing it merely as a traditional practice.
He stressed that regular yoga practice contributes to a healthier and happier life, adding that a healthy society ultimately lays the foundation for a healthy nation and a better world. He encouraged participants to adopt yoga as a daily habit to improve their overall well-being.
Adding a scientific and philosophical perspective to the celebration, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Earth Sciences, Srinivas Rao Gangi Reddy spoke about the relevance of yoga in today’s fast-paced and information-driven world. He said modern life is often marked by constant distractions and information overload, making mindfulness and clarity of thought more important than ever.
Reddy said that yoga provides a pathway to self-awareness, emotional intelligence and greater efficiency in personal and professional life. He emphasised that the practice helps individuals develop stronger interpersonal relationships and maintain mental balance amid daily challenges.
He also elaborated on the four traditional paths of yoga—Bhakti Yoga, Jnana Yoga, Karma Yoga and Raja Yoga – encouraging participants to pursue disciplined practice and conscious action as a means of achieving balance and inner harmony.
The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony during which Ministry and IMD officials honoured the yoga instructors for their contribution to promoting health and wellness within the organisation.
The celebration served as a reiteration of the commitment of the Earth Sciences Ministry and the IMD to foster a healthier, more focused, and productive workplace through the timeless wisdom of Yoga.
