Raipur . Emerging from the bloody shadow of Naxalism, Bastar is now moving towards a new dawn of peace, health and all-round development. Bastar has become Naxal-free as a result of the government-run Niyed Nella Nar and surrender and rehabilitation policy. Now, in a fear-free environment, unique initiatives are being taken under 'Yoga Yukt Bastar' and 'Bastar 2.0' to empower the youth physically and mentally and connect them with the mainstream. Yoga camps and health programs are being promoted to establish peace and mental tranquility in the region, which are realizing the vision of 'Yoga Yukt Bastar'.

During his one-day visit to Bijapur, the newly appointed Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Yoga Commission, Mr. Sanjay Agarwal, held a review meeting with yoga instructors working in ashrams and hostels. The meeting discussed an action plan to expand yoga activities in the district and reach more people.

Special emphasis on making Bastar 'yoga-rich'

In a press conference held at the Circuit House, Mr. Agarwal said, "Naxal-free Bastar will now become Yoga-rich Bastar." He explained that the Yoga Commission's objective is to make yoga a mass movement and make its benefits accessible to everyone.

Yoga benefits every age group

 Mr. Sanjay Agarwal said that through trained yoga instructors, children, youth, the elderly, and pregnant women will be provided with regular yoga practice. Yoga is the foundation of a healthy and disease-free life. Furthermore, yoga is beneficial for pregnant women and can prove helpful in normal delivery.

The scope of yoga will increase in schools and villages

Mr. Agarwal stated that efforts are being made to incorporate yoga more effectively in schools starting with the new academic year. This will help develop discipline, concentration, and a healthy lifestyle among students. Additionally, yoga gardens will be created in rural areas to encourage people to practice yoga regularly.

A massive public awareness campaign will be launched in Bastar.

Mr. Sanjay Agarwal said that the Yoga Commission will launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign, prioritizing the Bastar division. Its objective is to make yoga a part of people's daily routine and to build a healthy, disease-free, and positive society. Present on the occasion were State In-Charge of Patanjali Yoga Samiti Dr. Manoj Panigrahi, District In-Charge of Patanjali Yoga Samiti Raipur Mr. Rammani Shukla, State Executive of Bharat Swabhiman Trust Raipur Mr. Ela Hari Rao, In-Charge District AYUSH Officer Dr. Rakesh Thakur, along with related officials and other guests.