Shillong, June, 16: As part of the national celebrations leading to the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2025, the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Shillong, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, organised a Yoga Awareness Programme today at Laitumkhrah Assamese Secondary School, Shillong. The event was conducted in collaboration with the Meghalaya Yog Samiti to promote the benefits of yoga and holistic well-being among students and the school community.
This year’s Yoga Day theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, reflects the interconnectedness of personal health and environmental balance. The programme aimed to cultivate this spirit among young learners by encouraging healthy habits, mental discipline, and environmental responsibility. School students, teachers and NCC Cadets led by their teacher Smt Sangeeta Chakraborty enthusiastically participated in the Yoga programme.
The programme began with a welcome address by Smt. Rika Baruah, Principal of Laitumkhrah Assamese Secondary School, who expressed appreciation for CBC Shillong’s initiative. She noted that yoga is a powerful tool for developing self-discipline and concentration among students, which is essential for academic success and personal growth.
The session was conducted by Yoga Instructor Shri Shiv Sewa, who led the participants through the Common Yoga Protocol as prescribed by the Ministry of AYUSH. The protocol included loosening exercises, foundational yoga asanas such as Tadasana, Vrikshasana, Bhujangasana, and Shavasana, as well as Pranayama techniques like Anulom Vilom and Bhramari. The session concluded with a brief meditation. Shri Shiv Sewa highlighted the benefits of regular yoga practice in improving flexibility, reducing stress, and enhancing focus – particularly useful for students to improve concentration and academic performance.
Shri Dipankar Nandu, State Secretary of the Meghalaya Yog Samiti, addressed the students and shared that yoga is more than just a physical routine, it is a way of life that cultivates harmony between body, mind, and nature. He encouraged the young participants to make yoga a regular habit for long-term wellness.
To promote creative learning and participation, a Drawing Competition on the theme of yoga was organised. Students enthusiastically presented visual interpretations of yoga and well-being. A Quiz on Yoga and basic knowledge of Meghalaya followed, designed to enhance awareness about India’s ancient health practices and to deepen students’ understanding of their home state’s geography and culture. Winners of both competitions were awarded certificates and prizes, recognising their efforts and enthusiasm.
Adding an environmental focus to the programme, fruit-bearing saplings were planted on the school campus under the national campaign “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam”. This symbolic gesture reinforced the message of environmental care and honoured the nurturing spirit of motherhood and nature.
The Run-Up to International Day of Yoga 2025 programme by CBC Shillong served as a meaningful prelude to the global celebration on 21st June, inspiring young minds to embrace healthier lifestyles, respect the environment, and stay connected to India’s traditional systems of wellness.
