SHILLONG, JUN 19: Meghalaya observed the 12th International Day of Yoga on Friday with simultaneous celebrations across Jowai and Shillong, focusing on this year’s theme ‘Yoga for Healthy Ageing’ and the message of health, harmony and peace.

The Department of Health and Family Welfare, along with the National AYUSH Mission, Meghalaya, hosted the main events at Khimusniang Indoor Sports Hall, Jowai and The Oak Banquet Hall, Laitkor, Shillong.

The programs brought together students, AYUSH doctors, local leaders and citizens for mass yoga sessions and discussions on holistic wellness.

In Jowai, Health Minister Wailadmiki Shylla led the event and highlighted yoga’s role in tackling lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension and anxiety.

He urged youth to act as health ambassadors at the grassroots.

The minister also announced plans for a 50-bedded AYUSH hospital and an AYUSH medical college in West Jaintia Hills.

District officials, including District Program Manager Pynkhreh Susngi and Dr Bonnie T Hinge, stressed that yoga is a way of life that builds physical flexibility, mental resilience and emotional stability, especially for the elderly.

A guided yoga session by Dr Tremonmi Bamon, with Dr. Hinge as instructor, focused on asanas aligned to healthy ageing.

The Shillong event was graced by East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, IAS, as chief guest.

He described yoga as a tool for self-awareness, balance and focus, calling it India’s legacy to the world and urging youth to embrace it for life transformation. Dr NE Kharsahnoh, Director of Health Services (MI), attended as guest of honour.

The program, chaired by Dr SW Pala, featured a yoga demonstration by Dr B Chyrmang, Medical Officer (Yoga & Naturopathy), and concluded with a vote of thanks by District Programme Manager W Sohkhlet.