Surat, India: Under the guidance of Harsh Sanghvi, Minister of State for Youth, Culture, Sports and Home Affairs, Surat is gearing up to host the state-level celebration of International Yoga Day on June 21. The event, aimed at promoting healthy living and the benefits of yoga, is expected to see more than 1.25 lakh participants.

Yoga Vidya, a globally recognized gift from Indian culture, will be in the spotlight as the city conducts elaborate programs to celebrate International Yoga Day. A planning meeting, presided over by Minister Sanghvi, saw the participation of various high-ranking district officials, municipality representatives, members from the yoga board, police officers, representatives of the chamber of commerce, and various organizations involved in promoting yoga.

During the meeting, the Minister underscored the significance of Yoga Day celebrations worldwide, and the importance of encouraging every citizen of the state towards a healthier lifestyle and awareness of yoga. He requested all attendees to contribute towards the success of the upcoming 9th International Yoga Day, which will be held at the state level in Surat.

Instead of a traditional ground setting, the Minister directed the planning of yoga celebrations on three sides of a five-kilometer road at the city's iconic Y Junction. He emphasized the aim of spreading the message of yoga from Surat to the entire world, encouraging yoga practice from home.

Different blocks will be organized for diverse groups including children, pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, and individuals dressed as sadhus to participate in the grand event. The Minister urged maximum participation, emphasizing the need to create public awareness and draw individuals unfamiliar with yoga towards the practice.

The planning meeting was attended by several notable individuals, including Incharge District Magistrate BK Vasava, President of Gujarat Yoga Board Yogsevak Sheeshpalji, Joint Commissioner of Police DH Parmar, Additional DGP Surat Range Piyush Patel, and District Superintendent Police Officer Hitesh Joysar. Representatives from various organizations such as Art of Living, Brahmakumaris, and Yogkshetra also participated, presenting their views and suggestions for the Yoga Day celebration.