On the occasion of the 11th International Yoga Day, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami launched the state’s first-ever Dedicated Yoga Policy, marking a historic step in promoting wellness, spiritual tourism, and employment through yoga.
Speaking at a special event in Dehradun, CM Dhami said the policy reflects Uttarakhand's deep-rooted connection with yoga, as the land of sages, Rishikesh, and the Himalayas. The initiative is aimed at making the state a global hub for yoga and wellness tourism.
What the Policy Offers
The Yoga Policy includes provisions for:
Establishing certified yoga training centres
Creating employment opportunities for trained yoga professionals
Integrating yoga into school and college curriculums
Promoting yoga-based tourism packages and wellness retreats
Encouraging public and private sector partnerships for yoga infrastructure
The policy also aims to connect local youth with global wellness opportunities, including international certifications and job placements in the growing health and fitness sector.
The government believes that the new Yoga Policy will also contribute to rural tourism, especially in hilly areas where wellness resorts, retreats, and nature-centric yoga camps can flourish. Officials noted that the state is working to map out "Yoga Circuits" connecting spiritual and scenic destinations that would attract both domestic and international tourists.
A Cultural and Economic Vision
Calling yoga India’s gift to the world, CM Dhami stressed the importance of institutional support to ensure its sustainable growth.
“Uttarakhand is the spiritual capital of the world. With this policy, we are not just promoting yoga, but also creating jobs, boosting tourism, and preserving our ancient traditions,” he said.
Yoga sessions were held across the state on Friday, with thousands participating in public parks, schools, and riversides, reaffirming the state’s identity as the birthplace and guardian of yogic heritage.