Uttarakhand, often referred to as Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods), is all set to embrace a new identity as a global hub for yoga and wellness. With Rishikesh—the world capital of yoga—leading the way, the state government is rolling out India’s first Yoga Policy. This transformative initiative aims to position Uttarakhand as a premier destination for yoga, Ayurveda, and wellness tourism while creating abundant employment opportunities for locals.
The Vision Behind the Yoga Policy
CM Dhami’s Commitment to Yoga and Wellness
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami envisions Uttarakhand as a leader in integrating traditional wellness practices like yoga and Ayurveda. During the World Ayurveda Conference and Arogya Expo in Dehradun, he highlighted the state’s efforts to enhance:
- Medicinal plant cultivation
- Wellness and AYUSH manufacturing
- Research and education in Ayurveda and yoga
The upcoming Yoga Policy will serve as a cornerstone of this vision, fostering health and wellness on a global scale.
Key Highlights of the Yoga Policy
The Uttarakhand government is crafting this landmark policy with the following objectives:
Standardisation and Certification
- Registration of all yoga centres
- Standardised curriculum and uniformity in Yoga Teaching Institutions
- Fee reimbursement for courses certified by the Yoga Certification Board (Central Government)
Infrastructure Development
- Promoting Rishikesh as the Yoga City
- Establishing Yoga Grams and Wellness Centers across the state
- Developing facilities for yoga, naturopathy, and spirituality in other districts
Employment and Incentives
- Offering subsidies to new Yoga Institutions
- Providing honorariums for certified yoga trainers
- Introducing AYUSH teleconsultation services
Seeking Public Consultation
The policy’s drafting process has been highly inclusive. Experts, citizens, and institutions are invited to share suggestions and feedback to ensure a comprehensive and effective policy framework.
Transforming Uttarakhand into a Yoga Hub
Rishikesh: The Epicenter of Yoga
Rishikesh, already renowned as a global yoga destination, will play a pivotal role in this transformation. With its rich spiritual heritage and modern yoga facilities, the city is set to attract:
- Tourists seeking authentic yoga experiences
- Wellness enthusiasts from around the world
- Aspiring yoga practitioners and trainers
Boosting Employment for Youth
The policy will create significant employment opportunities for young professionals in:
- Yoga instruction and training
- Wellness tourism
- AYUSH-based manufacturing and research
Dr. Vijay Kumar Jogdande, Additional Secretary of AYUSH, emphasized the potential of this policy to generate both direct and indirect employment, benefiting the youth of Uttarakhand.
A Global Attraction
Yoga brand ambassador for Uttarakhand, Dilraj Preet Kaur, expressed optimism about the initiative. She believes that the policy will:
- Elevate Uttarakhand’s status as a global yoga destination
- Boost tourism and wellness-related revenue
- Benefit both residents and visitors seeking health and spiritual balance
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- India’s First Yoga Policy: Uttarakhand is the first state to introduce a dedicated yoga policy.
- Focus Areas: Standardisation of yoga education, infrastructure development, and employment generation.
- Rishikesh: Promoted as “Yoga City” and the epicenter of global wellness tourism.
- Government Initiatives: Subsidies, fee reimbursement, and teleconsultation under AYUSH programs.
- Employment Opportunities: New yoga and wellness centers, Yoga Grams, and incentives for trainers.
Uttarakhand’s journey towards becoming a global yoga land is not just about preserving ancient traditions but also about creating modern opportunities in wellness tourism and employment. With this policy, the state is poised to lead the way in promoting holistic health and spirituality on a global scale.
