R S PURA, Jun 22: Government Degree College (GDC), R.S. Pura celebrated the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 with great fervour and enthusiasm through a two-day programme organized on June 20 and 21, 2026 under the patronage of Prof. (Dr.) Preetpal Kour, Principal of the College.
The celebrations were held in accordance with the theme of the International Day of Yoga 2026, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing.” The programme was jointly organized by the NSS Unit, NCC Unit (Boys), NCC Unit (Girls) and the Department of Physical Education and Sports of the college.
The celebrations commenced on June 20 with a special yoga session for the teaching and non-teaching staff of the college. Teaching and non-teaching members actively participated in various yoga asanas and breathing exercises aimed at promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and a healthy lifestyle.
The main event was held on June 21 in the college premises where staff members (teaching and non-teaching), NSS volunteers and NCC cadets from both boys and girls wings participated in large numbers.
The participants performed the Common Yoga Protocol and various yogic practices, highlighting the significance of yoga as a holistic approach to health and wellness.
The yoga session was conducted by Dr. Roopali Slathia, Physical Director, Department of Physical Education and Sports who demonstrated different yoga postures and pranayama techniques and sensitized the participants about the physical, mental and emotional benefits of regular yoga practice.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. (Dr.) Preetpal Kour, Principal of the college emphasized the transformative role of yoga in promoting physical fitness, mental resilience, emotional balance and overall well-being.
Describing yoga as India’s timeless gift to humanity, she highlighted its relevance in contemporary society and encouraged the adoption of yoga as a way of life. Referring to the theme “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” she urged students, staff members (Teaching & non-teaching) to incorporate yoga into their daily routine for a healthier, happier and more productive life.
The Principal, under the 100 Days of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, administered the Nasha Mukt Bharat pledge and urged participants to uphold social responsibility, commit to a drug-free society, and spread awareness on the ill effects of substance abuse. She also appreciated the efforts of the NSS and NCC units and the Department of Physical Education and Sports for successfully organizing the two-day programme and spreading awareness about the benefits of yoga among the youth.
The programme was coordinated by NSS Committee members, NCC Unit (Boys), Dr. RoopaliSlathia, Physical Director, Department of Physical Education and Sports and Dr. Kiran Lata, CTO, NCC 8 J&K Girls Battalion whose dedicated efforts ensured the smooth and successful conduct of the event. As part of the concluding segment of the celebrations, the NashaMukt Bharat Abhiyan pledge was administered to all participants.
All the teaching and Non-teaching members, NSS volunteers and NCC cadets collectively reaffirmed their commitment to a drug-free lifestyle and pledged to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse. The event concluded with a collective resolve to foster a healthy, responsible and addiction-free society, reflecting the true spirit of the International Day of Yoga.