Uttarakhand gets state's first ‘yoga policy', CM Dhami announces ‘spiritual economic zones'

On the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami officially launched the state's first-ever Yoga Policy from Bhararisain, the state's summer capital.
He declared, 'Uttarakhand will be developed as the global capital of yoga and wellness.'
While delivering his message 'Yoga in Every Home, Health for Every Person,' Dhami spoke of the Central Government's support in the initiative and announced the establishment of a 'Spiritual Economic Zones' in Garhwal and Kumaon divisions.
These zones will reportedly be developed as international hubs of ayurveda, yoga, and spiritual tourism, and will also facilitate employment in the state, helping to curb migration from the hill regions.
By March 2026, yoga services will be ensured at all AYUSH Health and Wellness Centers, and by 2030, five new yoga hubs will be developed across the state, Dhami said.
Under the new policy, establishment of yoga and meditation centers will be eligible for up to Rs 20 lakh in subsidies, and research related to yoga and naturopathy will be granted up to Rs 10 lakhs.
Dhami said, 'Yoga is not just exercise; it is a philosophy of life that has united the world beyond caste, religion, and borders. It has become the most powerful bridge of global unity and humanity.'
Among the dignitaries attending the event were Cabinet Minister Dr. Dhan Singh Rawat, Ambassador of Mexico to India Federico Salas, Ambassador of Nepal Dr. Shankar Prasad Sharma, and diplomats from six countries – Fiji, Mongolia, Russia, Latvia, Sri Lanka, and Suriname.
Before the event, the Chief Minister conversed with the youth and urged them to make yoga a part of their daily routine and move toward a healthier life.
While noting the pivotal role of Bhararisain in yoga, spirituality, and policy-making, he described the location as a center of Uttarakhand's cultural heritage and natural beauty.

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