‘Yoga Mahotsav – 2026’ starts in Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga

The Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY, organised Yoga Mahotsav-2026 at Vigyan Bhawan to mark the start of the 100-day countdown to the International Day of Yoga 2026. The programme will launch a nationwide initiative in which 100 organisations will promote yoga across 100 cities as part of the lead-up to the global celebration on June 21.

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush Prataprao Jadhav, Ayush Secretary Rajesh Kotecha, President of S‑VYASA Society H. R. Nagendra and Joint Secretary in the ministry Monalisa attend the event along with yoga gurus, experts from Ayush and modern medicine, and yoga practitioners.

Jadhav said the United Nations declared June 21 as International Day of Yoga in 2014 following an initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the global acceptance of yoga as a matter of pride for India.

The ministry noted that the 100-day countdown is an important phase in the run-up to the annual celebration, aimed at expanding outreach and encouraging greater public participation. For the 12th International Day of Yoga, the government plans to organise events at 100 iconic locations across the country, with preparations already gaining momentum.
(updated on 13th march 2026)