11th International Yoga Day in Haryana to be Historic; more than 11 lakh Yoga Practitioners to Perform Yoga Together

State-level event to be held at Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra with a target of setting a world record through participation of one lakh people

Chief Minister attends Yoga Protocol Training Camp at ITBP BTC, Bhanu, Panchkula

Two-minute silence observed to pay tribute to victims of plane crash in Ahmedabad

Chandigarh, June 13– Haryana Chief Minister, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that preparations are underway to make the upcoming 11th International Yoga Day, to be celebrated on June 21, a historic event. On this day, yoga programmes will be organized simultaneously across all 22 districts and 121 blocks of the state, with participation of over 11 lakh people. This year’s state-level programme will be held at the sacred Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra, the very site from where Lord Krishna delivered the message of karma to the world. Renowned yoga guru Swami Ramdev will personally lead the yoga session at this iconic venue, he said.

The Chief Minister further shared that the aim is to ensure participation of over one lakh people, not only to popularize yoga but also to set a new world record.

The Chief Minister was addressing a Yoga Protocol Training Camp organized jointly by the AYUSH Department, Haryana Yog Aayog, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) at the ITBP BTC, Bhanu, in Panchkula on Friday.

During the event, the Chief Minister, along with other dignitaries and ITBP personnel, observed two minutes of silence to pay homage to those who lost their lives in the Ahmedabad plane crash and prayed for their souls’ peace.

Paying tribute to the incredible contribution of ITBP personnel, Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that this institution is a living embodiment of discipline, service, dedication, and patriotism. He said that ITBP soldiers guard our northeastern borders in harsh conditions day and night. Be it disaster relief, internal security, or international sports, ITBP has always taken a lead role.

Praising the Haryana Yog Aayog, he said that the Aayog is promoting yoga to ensure the well-being of our central security forces. Today’s Yoga Protocol Training Camp holds special significance as it is being held just a week before the 11th International Yoga Day in 2025.

The Chief Minister said that the camp is especially important because it is dedicated to those protecting our borders. Yoga not only promotes health but also instills team spirit, cooperation, and discipline – making it deeply connected with our armed forces, he said.

Over 15.60 lakh People have Participated in Yoga Programmes Across Haryana

The Chief Minister said that the celebrations of the 11th International Yoga Day in Haryana had already commenced on May 27, with yoga programmes being organized across the state. So far, over 15.60 lakh people have participated in these programmes. He shared that more than 61,000 medicinal plants have been planted during these events. A Yoga Awareness campaign is also being carried out, which will reach 5,000 villages in the state by June 19. Institutions like Patanjali Yogpeeth, Bharatiya Yog Sansthan, Brahma Kumaris, and Art of Living are holding yoga camps at 2,500 locations across the state.

The Chief Minister said that under the Harit Yoga Campaign, 10 lakh medicinal plants will be distributed till June 21. Additionally, a dedicated government portal has received 7,65,500 registrations for participation in the International Yoga Day event on June 21, he said.

He further said that yoga is a gift from our sages, but over time this ancient tradition faded, impacting humanity. Thanks to the efforts of Prime Minister, Sh. Narendra Modi, the United Nations declared June 21 as International Yoga Day. Today, countries around the world have adopted yoga. Yoga is now a way of life not just in India but globally, said Sh. Nayab Singh Saini.

He said that to promote yoga, the state government has constructed 714 vyayamshalas and appointed 877 AYUSH Yoga Sahayak. These vyayamshalas will also host programs on June 21.

The Chief Minister emphasized that the Prime Minister envisions India becoming a developed nation by 2047, and each of us has a vital role in achieving that goal. He urged everyone to embrace the knowledge of yoga and spread its benefits to others. On this occasion, the Chief Minister also administered a pledge for a Yog yukt-Nasha mukt Haryana. He planted a sapling on the premises of the ITBP BTC under the “Ek Ped Maa ke Naam" campaign.

Yoga is not Just Exercise but a Symbol of Balance and Holistic Health – Arti Singh Rao

AYUSH and Health Minister Kumari Arti Singh Rao said that the theme for the 11th International Yoga Day is “Yoga for One Earth, One Health”, reminding us that human health is deeply connected to the health of the environment and all living beings. She said that Yoga is not just a physical activity but a global message of balance, holistic development, and wellness. Under the visionary leadership of the Chief Minister, the Haryana Government has transformed yoga from an individual practice into a mass movement.

Over 10 lakh citizens are participating in yoga-related activities across the state. At the district level, yoga marathons, awareness drives, and group yoga sessions are being conducted. Research activities are also being carried out at all government medical colleges, she said.

The Minister further shared that under the Harit Yoga initiative, 10 lakh medicinal plants are being planted. Plantation drives and cleanliness campaigns are being organized at all yoga venues, integrating yoga with environmental responsibility. From police lines to the Vidhan Sabha, and from border security forces to schools, every corner of Haryana is resonating with the energy of yoga, she said.

Yoga is not just Exercise, but an Art of Living – Dr. Jaideep Arya

Chairman, Haryana Yog Aayog, Dr. Jaideep Arya, emphasized that yoga is not merely an exercise but a way of life that inspires individuals to maintain balance in every situation. Quoting the Bhagavad Gita, he said, "Yogasthaḥ kuru karmāṇi" – perform every action established in yoga.

He said that for soldiers posted in extreme climates like Siachen at -40°C, yoga becomes a crucial source of physical and mental strength. Troops stationed at the borders have incorporated yoga and asanas into their daily routines, setting inspiring examples, shared Dr. Jaideep Arya.

He further noted that organizing the state-level Yoga Day celebration at Kurukshetra, the sacred land of the Gita, is of immense significance.

On this occasion, Brigadier J.S. Goraya, Commandant Sh. Sunil, Additional Chief Secretary, Health and AYUSH Department, Sh. Sudhir Rajpal, ITBP personnel, and other senior officials were present.

===========================================

Real strength of democracy lies with the voters says CEO Pankaj Agarwal

India shares its longstanding partnership in election management and democratic cooperation at Stockholm Conference

CEC Gyanesh Kumar interacts with Indian diaspora in Sweden

Chandigarh, June 13 – Haryana Chief Electoral Officer, Sh. Pankaj Agarwal said that the Chief Election Commissioner of India, Sh. Gyanesh Kumar, represented India’s long standing partnership in the field of election management and democratic cooperation at a two-day conference in Stockholm, Sweden. The event was organised by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA).

Sh. Agarwal said that the CEC held several bilateral meetings with heads of election management bodies from different countries. He also met Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) living in Sweden. During the interaction, he emphasised the importance of their vote and informed them that the Election Commission of India has special arrangements to ensure that NRIs can vote in Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. While the Election Commission plays the role of conducting elections, the real strength of democracy lies with the voters. Every vote matters, and every voter contributes to keeping democracy alive and strong, he added.

Sh. Gyanesh Kumar underlined India’s leadership in election management. The conference, being attended by over 100 participants representing nearly 50 countries, is organized by International IDEA in collaboration with the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Swedish Election Authority, and the Australian Electoral Commission.

The CEC also held discussions with election officers from several countries, including the United Kingdom, South Africa, Indonesia, Mexico, Mongolia, Moldova, Lithuania, Mauritius, Germany, Ukraine, Croatia, and Switzerland. Key focus areas of the conference included the impact of misinformation, digital disruptions, electoral security, climate-related challenges, and the role of artificial intelligence in elections.

==========================================

*Haryana urges residents to stay safe amid scorching heatwave*

Chandigarh, June 13 – As Haryana grapples with intense heatwave conditions, the state government has issued an urgent call for residents to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard themselves, their families, and livestock from the extreme heat. Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Disaster Management Dr. Sumita Misra, has directed Deputy Commissioners to actively promote heatwave do's and don'ts within their districts and ensure adequate measures are in place to mitigate the ill effects on humans and livestock.

These measures include providing sufficient drinking water in public places, launching intensive public outreach on heatwave precautions, ensuring adequate medical supplies for heatstroke patients up to the PHC level, and releasing advisories regarding working hours for manual laborers, hawkers, vendors, and rickshaw pullers during peak heatwave hours. To minimize the impact and prevent serious illness or fatalities due to heatstroke, Dr. Misra urged the public to adhere to a comprehensive set of do's and don'ts.

To effectively combat dehydration, all Primary Health Centers (PHCs) and Community Health Centers (CHCs) have been directed to remain fully equipped with adequate saline solution and sufficient beds. Citizens are advised to drink sufficient water, even if not thirsty, and to carry water when travelling. Wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting, and porous cotton clothes is recommended, along with using protective gear such as sunglasses, umbrellas, turbans/scarves, hats, shoes, or chappals when outdoors. For those working outside, it's advised to use a hat or umbrella and apply a damp cloth to the head, neck, face, and limbs. Rehydration is crucial, and the use of ORS (oral rehydration solution) and homemade drinks like lassi, lemon water, and buttermilk is encouraged.

Dr. Misra also highlighted the importance of recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses such as weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating, and seizures, urging individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they feel faint or ill. Protecting vulnerable populations is a priority, so it is advised keeping animals in the shade with plenty of water, ensuring homes are kept cool by using curtains, shutters, or sunshades during the day. Pregnant women workers and those with medical conditions require additional attention.

Dr. Misra strongly cautioned against certain activities during the heatwave. "Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles under any circumstances," she stressed. People should avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m., and refrain from strenuous activities when outside temperatures are high. Furthermore, it is advised against cooking during peak hours and recommended adequately ventilating cooking areas. Alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks should be avoided, as they dehydrate the body.

"The best defense against extreme heat is to be prepared," Dr. Misra said, urging citizens to prepare their homes, workplaces, and communities, know the symptoms of heat-related illness, and check on vulnerable individuals such as children, elderly family members, homebound neighbours, and outdoor workers during extreme heat events. Additionally, Dr. Misra stated that working hours should be rescheduled to avoid peak heat times to protect workers' health and enhance productivity. The Labour Department is also directed to coordinate with the Health Department to organize health camps, especially in informal sectors and settlements, and ensure emergency medical aid is readily available at work sites to address heat-related illnesses.

===============================================

Financial assistance of Rs.221.74 Lakh provided to 311 SC beneficiaries by May

Chandigarh, June 13 – Haryana Social Justice, Empowerment, Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes Welfare, and Antyodaya (SEWA), Minister Sh. Krishan Kumar Bedi, said that the Haryana Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation has provided financial assistance of Rs. 221.74 lakh to 311 Scheduled Caste beneficiaries by May under various schemes for the financial year 2025–26. This amount also includes a subsidy of Rs.24.14 lakh.

Sh.Bedi said that the Corporation offers loans to individuals from Scheduled Castes under various categories to help them start their own businesses or self-employment ventures. These categories include agriculture and allied activities, industrial activities, trade and business, and other self-employment fields. Assistance is also provided under schemes supported by the National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation.

In the agriculture and allied sector, 130 beneficiaries have received Rs. 104.72 lakh for activities like dairy farming, sheep rearing, and pig farming. Out Of this, Rs. 97.61 lakh was in the form of bank loans and Rs. 7.11 lakh as subsidy.

Similarly, under the industrial, trade, and business categories, 177 beneficiaries were provided with Rs.114.52 lakh. This included Rs.86.44 lakh as bank loans, Rs.16.63 lakh as subsidy, and Rs.11.45 lakh as margin money.

Apart from this, in the professional and self-employment category, 4 beneficiaries received a total of Rs. 2.50 lakh. This included Rs.1.85 lakh in bank loans, Rs.40,000 as subsidy, and Rs.25,000 as margin money.

=====================================================

Grand event will be organsied on International Yoga Day in Kurukshetra: Arti Singh Rao

More than 15 lakh people have already participated in yoga sessions being held in state: Arti Singh Rao

Health Minister condoles demise of victims of Air India plane crash

Chandigarh, June 13 – Haryana Health and Family Welfare Minister Arti Singh Rao today said the state has witnessed an overwhelming response to the ongoing yoga camps organized in the lead-up to International Yoga Day on June 21. She said Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini had announced the launch of yoga sessions 25 days before the International Yoga Day, and so far, more than 15 lakh people have actively participated in these sessions across the state.

The minister highlighted that lakhs of participants have taken a pledge to incorporate yoga into their daily routines, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

She said a grand event will be organized on International Yoga Day on June 21 in Kurukshetra where Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev will also be present. Since it is the 11th International Yoga Day, we are aiming to ensure that 11 lakh people across the state will do yoga together. She said the government is also actively engaged in distributing saplings among people and along with doing yoga, we also want to spread awareness on protecting the environment.

The minister also paid condolences to people who lost their family members in the Air India flight crash. "It is heart wrenching and sad to hear about this incident. When the plane came down, some of its parts fell on the medical hostel, resulting in the death of more than 50 doctors. May God give peace to their souls and strength to the families of all the victims to bear this loss.”

In response to a question on the Covid situation, the minister said there was no need to worry as most cases are mild, yet the public are advised to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour to ensure the safety of all.

==============================================

Departments must show concrete progress on CM’s budget announcements by December 2025: Dr. Saket Kumar

Dr. Saket Kumar chairs high-level review meeting on status of 79 budget announcements

Chandigarh, June 13 - The announcements made by Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini in the budget speech of the year 2025-26 as Finance Minister are now being implemented at the administrative level. Additional Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Dr. Saket Kumar has clearly said that these announcements are not just promises, but resolutions for public welfare, which are a priority. He directed all the departments that concrete progress of all the announcements should be visible before December 2025.

Dr. Saket Kumar was chairing a high-level review meeting held at Haryana Niwas today, in which the status of 79 announcements related to the departments of Electricity, Panchayati Raj and Rural Development, Urban Local Bodies, Secondary, Higher and Technical Education, Tourism and Heritage, Social Justice and Empowerment, Town and Country Planning, Archives and Housing was thoroughly evaluated.

He said each department should fix the responsibility of nodal officers for the implementation of its announcements so that there is clarity and accountability in the functioning. He also assured that there will be no shortage of funds required for the announcements.

Special focus on Education Department

Dr. Saket Kumar informed that the maximum 28 announcements related to education have been made in the budget of the year 2025-26. The Secondary, Higher and Technical Education departments have been instructed to coordinate with other related departments and complete the file process expeditiously, so that all the work can be completed in a timely manner.

He also directed the officials to prepare a detailed project report (DPR) of all the announcements and upload it on the Haryana Engineering Works Portal and complete the tender process as soon as possible.

Cleanliness system in urban areas also on agenda

He also asked to prioritize the disposal of old waste in urban areas so that concrete changes can be felt in the field of cleanliness. Dr. Saket Kumar's review meeting affirmed that government announcements are more than just words; they are concrete, public-interest initiatives set to be delivered on time.