Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu called Prime Minister Narendra Modi a visionary for transforming yoga into a global wellness movement.
The Chief Minister highlighted the global recognition of the International Day of Yoga since its adoption by the United Nations. He credited Prime Minister Modi’s leadership for this achievement, noting that Yoga Day is now celebrated at over 12 lakh venues across 175 countries, with participation from 10 crore people worldwide.
Naidu was speaking at the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations in Visakhapatnam, where he joined the Prime Minister, central and state ministers, the Governor, and others in performing the Common Yoga Protocol.
Naidu praised PM Modi for popularizing yoga not only in India but around the world.
“Yoga is accepted by everyone, irrespective of nationality, region, religion, or language. Yoga unites the body, mind, and spirit. It benefits physical health, mental well-being, and stress management; boosts immunity; and enhances self-confidence, self-discovery, personal growth, mindfulness, and inner peace. This leads to reduced violence and promotes peace,” said Naidu.
He noted that technologies like Artificial Intelligence have made yoga more inclusive and accessible.
Naidu thanked the Prime Minister for giving Andhra Pradesh the opportunity to host the event, calling it historic. He pointed out that over 3 lakh people participated in a yoga session held along a 28-km stretch from Visakhapatnam to Bhogapuram.
He added that during the month-long campaign ‘Yogandhra’, more than 1.44 lakh yoga teachers were trained. The campaign registered over 2.17 crore participants at 1.4 lakh locations, with 1.7 crore certificates being issued.
He announced that 22,122 tribal students created a Guinness World Record by simultaneously performing Surya Namaskar in Visakhapatnam on Friday.
Expressing delight over the organization of global competitions focused on yoga, Naidu said the Yoga Super League would be held in September.
He also urged the Prime Minister to use his influence to include yoga in the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and eventually, the Olympic Games. He remarked that the Prime Minister can “break any record and make history.”
“Yoga has achieved mass momentum. We must ensure it becomes a part of our daily lives,” the Chief Minister said, appealing to the youth to practice yoga for one hour every day.
“Young people should see yoga not just as exercise but as a powerful tool to enhance focus, discipline, and creativity in a rapidly evolving digital world. With regular practice, you will witness a miracle in your lives,” he said.
Stating that a healthy, wealthy, and happy Andhra Pradesh is the goal of the Swarnandhra vision, he added that it aligns with Viksit Bharat.
Naidu noted that PM Modi has revived yoga, naturopathy, and Ayurveda, and is promoting green energy, Swachh Bharat, and natural farming. He said the Prime Minister’s vision extends beyond a healthy global community to a healthy planet.
IANS
