YogaDay – Police and Public Join Large-Scale Yoga Events Across Andhra Pradesh
YogaDay – International Yoga Day was observed with widespread participation across Andhra Pradesh on Sunday, as police personnel, government officials, students, and residents gathered at various venues to promote physical fitness and mental well-being through yoga.
At the police headquarters in Mangalagiri, senior officers and staff members took part in a special morning yoga session organised to mark the occasion. The programme commenced at 6.30 a.m. on a specially prepared platform near the headquarters complex, where participants practiced a range of yoga postures under the supervision of trained instructors.
Focus on Physical and Mental Wellness
During the session, officials highlighted the role of yoga in maintaining overall health, improving concentration, reducing stress, and enhancing emotional balance. These benefits, they noted, are particularly valuable for police personnel who often work under challenging and high-pressure conditions.
Several senior IPS officers, including N. Ammireddy and Krishnakant, participated in the programme alongside other members of the police department. Addressing the gathering, they encouraged personnel to incorporate yoga into their daily routines and described the practice as an essential component of a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.
Theme Highlights Healthy Ageing
This year’s International Yoga Day is being celebrated under the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The theme draws attention to the importance of maintaining physical strength, flexibility, and mental resilience as individuals grow older.
Officials stated that regular yoga practice can contribute significantly to long-term health and improve quality of life across different age groups. Participants were also encouraged to continue practicing yoga beyond the annual observance.
Statewide Participation Across Police Units
Apart from Mangalagiri, similar programmes were organised at district police offices and other government locations throughout the state. Thousands of police personnel joined the celebrations, reflecting the growing acceptance of yoga as a tool for personal wellness and professional efficiency.
Authorities said the enthusiastic participation demonstrated increasing awareness about preventive healthcare and the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle.
Massive Turnout in Prakasam District
In Prakasam district, International Yoga Day celebrations were held under the banner of the “Yogandhra” initiative at the Police Parade Grounds. The event attracted nearly 2,000 participants from different sections of society.
The programme was attended by Social Welfare Minister Dola Sree Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy, District Collector P. Raja Babu, Superintendent of Police Harshavardhana Raju, and Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation Chairman N. Balaji.
Students representing Patanjali Yoga Centre and several educational institutions presented yoga demonstrations, showcasing different techniques and postures before the audience.
Strong Public Response and Awareness Initiatives
As part of the programme, the Superintendent of Police administered a yoga pledge, encouraging participants to adopt healthy habits and make yoga a regular practice. Officials also launched a QR code poster linked to the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat’ campaign aimed at promoting a drug-free society.
According to District Collector Raja Babu, more than 3.63 lakh people had registered for Yoga Day-related activities across the district. He added that over 4,428 yoga practice sessions were conducted in different locations leading up to the celebrations.
Officials Encourage Daily Practice
Addressing participants, Minister Swamy said that consistent yoga practice can play an important role in achieving the government’s vision of a healthier Andhra Pradesh. SP Harshavardhana Raju urged citizens to dedicate time each day to yoga, while APTDC Chairman Balaji stressed its value in supporting the healthy development of children and young people.
Officials noted that people from various age groups actively participated in the celebrations, underlining yoga’s broad appeal and its growing significance as a lifestyle practice across the state.