Yoga day was held in Visakhapatnam district with massive participation

The 12th International Day of Yoga was held in Visakhapatnam district on Sunday with the participation of government departments, educational institutions, public sector undertakings, defense establishments, welfare hostels and correctional facilities, underscoring the growing acceptance of yoga as a tool for physical and mental well-being.

The district level Yogandhra programme, originally planned at RK Beach and shifted to Sagarika Convention Hall due to heavy rain, was attended by Andhra Pradesh Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha. Addressing the participants, the Home Minister said that the state government’s aim is to build a healthier Andhra Pradesh and urged people to make yoga an integral part of their daily lives. She highlighted the fortnight Yogandhra campaign organized across the state and described yoga as India’s invaluable gift to the world.

Government Whip P. Ganababu, Gajuwaka State MLA and TDP President AP Palla Srinivasa Rao, District Collector M. Abhishikth Kishore, Police Commissioner Shankhabrata Bagchi, GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg, Joint Collector Gobbilla Vidhyadhari and Andhra University Vice-Chancellor participated in the Raja Sekhar GP event, which participated in the mass yoga demonstration, participating in the Raja Sekhar event and the winners of the competition.

Defense and naval installations also marked the occasion. Around 400 employees and family members participated in yoga organized by the Indian Coast Guard. Additional CEO Donny Michael highlighted the role of yoga in maintaining fitness, reducing stress and promoting healthy ageing.

At Hindustan Shipyard Limited, the employees celebrated the day in line with the theme ‘Yoga for Healthy Aging’. Chairman and Managing Director (Additional Charge) Captain Ganti Venkateswarlu encouraged the employees to adopt yoga as a lifelong practice.

The ceremony spread to the Visakhapatnam Central Jail, where about 1,200 inmates and 80 staff members participated in yoga and meditation sessions. Superintendent M. Mahesh Babu said yoga contributes to rehabilitation by promoting discipline, emotional balance and positive behavior change.

Educational and social institutions also joined the celebrations. Heartfulness and Yoga classes were organized in the hostels of the Welfare Department, including Boys and Girls Hostels in Bheemunipatnam. Vice Principal K. Rama Rao and representatives of Heartfulness Society interacted with the students and highlighted the role of yoga and meditation in improving concentration, mental health and responsible citizenship.

Officials said the district-wide observance reflects the collective commitment of institutions and citizens to a healthier lifestyle through yoga.

Published – 21 Jun 2026 19:55 IST