Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Jun 21: Goa Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant on Saturday appealed to school teachers across the state to dedicate at least 15 minutes every day to practicing yoga with students, as a step towards improving their physical and mental well-being.

Speaking at the 11th International Yoga Day celebration held at Dr Shama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Bambolim, Sawant emphasised that yoga is not just a fitness routine but an essential element of the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, championed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“Yoga must become part of school culture. I request teachers to practice yoga with students every day. It improves focus, discipline, and ensures mental and physical health,” Sawant said. He noted that many teachers are already being trained in yoga by various organisations.

He stressed that the aim of the Fit India movement is to ensure every youth is in good health. “We should not practice yoga just because someone asks us to. Do it for yourself and your family,” he said.

Highlighting India’s global role, the chief minister added, “Yoga is India’s gift to the world. Today, it is celebrated in over 180 countries thanks to PM Modi’s efforts. It has united the world and transcends all boundaries.”

Sawant, a regular yoga practitioner himself, encouraged citizens to make it part of daily life. “Yoga increases happiness and wellness. With rising cases of BP, diabetes, and even cancer in households, yoga is a preventive step everyone should take,” he said.