Prataprao Jadhav, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) at the Ministry of Ayush, revealed that the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) will host the “Yoga Mahotsav – 25-Day Countdown to International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026” starting at the Western Group of Temples in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. The countdown, a crucial phase to raise awareness and promote public involvement through Yoga demonstrations and activities, will kick off at 6 a.m. and feature the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) with participants from all over the country.
Ahead of the event, Minister Jadhav, along with Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, addressed a press conference in Khajuraho. The 25-day countdown is an annual initiative leading up to the International Day of Yoga, aiming to engage Yoga practitioners, students, officials, and wellness enthusiasts nationwide. The program signifies the government’s dedication to expanding Yoga’s reach and promoting holistic health and wellness.
During the press conference, Member of Parliament Vishnu Dutt Sharma and MLA Arvind Pateriya were also in attendance. Minister Jadhav highlighted that the “Yoga Mahotsav–2026” is a significant step in the preparations for the 12th International Day of Yoga in 2026. He emphasized the global impact of Yoga as a movement for overall well-being, rooted in India’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Minister Jadhav mentioned the ongoing 100-day nationwide countdown campaign in collaboration with various institutions to enhance awareness and participation leading up to IDY 2026. He underscored the evolution of Yoga into a global phenomenon for health and wellness, following its recognition by the United Nations in 2014. Additionally, the Ministry of Ayush, in partnership with MDNIY and Habuild, is conducting a 100-day free Yoga training campaign under the “Yoga 365 Days” initiative, with a substantial number of participants already enrolled as “Yoga Mitras.”
