India Marks 10 Years of IDY: Visakhapatnam Chosen as National Host

As India prepares to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the International Day of Yoga (IDY), Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh has been selected as the national host for the 11th edition of the global wellness event. Senior officials from the Ministry of Ayush and the Government of Andhra Pradesh conducted a high-level review and field visit to assess preparedness. The event aims to advance Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of taking yoga to the grassroots, ensuring that the benefits of this ancient Indian tradition reach every citizen.

Why in News?

Visakhapatnam is set to host the 11th International Day of Yoga (IDY) on June 21, 2025, marking a decade of IDY celebrations. A high-level team from the Ministry of Ayush and the Andhra Pradesh Government recently conducted a comprehensive field review of the key venues and infrastructure readiness in the city.

Key Highlights of the Event

• Location: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• Date: June 21, 2025
• Main Venues: RK Beach, Rishikonda Beach, Andhra University, GITAM University
• Participants Expected in Vizag: 5 lakh+
• Celebration Sites Across AP: 1 lakh locations
• National Theme: Yoga for One Earth, One Health

Officials Involved

• Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha – Secretary, Ministry of Ayush
• Shri K. Vijayanand – Special Chief Secretary, Andhra Pradesh
• Ms. Monalisa Dash – Joint Secretary, Ministry of Ayush
• M.N. Harendhira Prasad – District Collector, Visakhapatnam
• Heads of Departments – Health, Urban Planning, Ayush, VMRDA

Purpose of Review Meeting

• Inspect key yoga demonstration sites
• Evaluate public infrastructure and security measures
• Promote inter-departmental coordination
• Emphasize cultural integration and wellness programming

The ‘Yogandhra’ Initiative: Andhra Pradesh’s Flagship Drive

• Aims to reach over 2 crore citizens
• Organizes mass awareness campaigns
• Conducts yoga camps in schools and universities
• Target of training 20 lakh certified yoga practitioners
• Promotes daily yoga practice as a lifestyle habit

Background & Significance

• International Day of Yoga was declared by the United Nations in 2014.
• First IDY was celebrated in 2015.
• It is observed worldwide on June 21, aligning with the summer solstice.
• The initiative has evolved into a global movement, promoting holistic health and wellness.