Uttarakhand Unveils India’s First Yoga Policy to Become Global Yoga Hub

Uttarakhand, famously known as “Devbhoomi,” is set to become the first Indian state to implement a dedicated Yoga Policy, aimed at transforming the state into a global yoga destination. With Rishikesh already recognized as the “Yoga Capital of the World,” this initiative builds on the state’s rich cultural and spiritual legacy while aligning with the AYUSH policy’s success. The policy, envisioned by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, integrates yoga, Ayurveda, and wellness into a comprehensive development strategy for tourism, health, and employment.

Yoga Policy: Vision and Key Provisions

Planned Development for Yoga: The policy seeks to establish Uttarakhand as a global hub for yoga by promoting wellness tourism, standardizing yoga centers, and incentivizing the establishment of new yoga and wellness institutions.

Infrastructural Focus: It includes provisions for registration of yoga centers, a subsidy scheme for their development, and the creation of uniform course standards certified by the Yoga Certification Board.

Employment Generation: The establishment of 50 new yoga and wellness centers and Yoga Grams will create substantial job opportunities for local youth and professionals.

Government Initiatives Under AYUSH

Integration with Healthcare: The government aims to integrate yoga and Ayurveda into the healthcare system, with AYUSH teleconsultation services and district-level AYUSH hospitals already underway.

Research and Education: Efforts are being made to enhance research and education in medicinal plants, with a proposal to establish an All India Institute of Ayurveda in Uttarakhand.

Global Outlook: The state is hosting the 10th World Ayurveda Congress and Arogya Expo, featuring participation from over 3,000 experts and delegates from 50 countries.

Public Consultation and Global Impact

Draft Refinement: After drafting the Yoga Policy in 2023, consultations with experts, stakeholders, and public feedback are being incorporated for finalization.

Tourism and Ayurveda Promotion: Rishikesh’s promotion as a “Yoga City” and the branding of local herbs like “Kilmora” by their English names aim to enhance their global market reach.

Global Recognition for Ayurveda: India now exports AYUSH products to over 150 countries, with the sector adopting cutting-edge technologies like AI and ML.

Linking Past and Present

Uttarakhand’s journey from being a land of sages and spirituality to a modern wellness hub aligns with India’s broader AYUSH mission initiated under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The state’s commitment to Ayurveda and yoga-based healthcare builds on the success of the AYUSH policy, which has already seen a significant rise in herbal exports and product innovation. This policy reaffirms Uttarakhand’s status as a “treasure trove of Ayurvedic knowledge,” while offering innovative opportunities for the present and future.

Significance and Future Prospects

The Yoga Policy will not only enhance Uttarakhand’s status as a global wellness destination but also revolutionize healthcare and education systems by integrating ancient practices with modern technologies. This initiative positions Uttarakhand at the forefront of India’s efforts to promote its rich heritage and global wellness tourism.

Summary of the news