The Jalandhar City today witnessed a massive wave of enthusiasm for yoga as over 21,000 yoga enthusiasts participated in the CM di Yogshala program, setting a new record for attendance in a single yoga event. Originally, arrangements had been made for 17,000 yoga mats, but the overwhelming public response exceeded all expectations.
In a bid to build a healthy, progressive, and prosperous Punjab, Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh on Thursday gave a clarion call to the people to make yoga an integral part of their daily lives.
Addressing a large gathering during the state-level ‘CM di Yogshala’ function at PAP Ground, the Health Minister said it was heartening to see people from all walks of life participating enthusiastically in this mega event. He stated that ‘CM di Yogshala’ is serving as a stepping stone towards building a healthier and more vibrant Punjab. Dr. Balbir Singh expressed pride in the fact that thousands of Punjabis have joined the state government in this noble cause, and said the day is not far when Punjab will regain its pristine glory as a healthy and dynamic state.
AAP's Jalandhar Central Halka Incharge Nitin Kohli addressed the youth and schoolchildren present in large numbers. Nitin Kohli said, "At CM Yogshala, seeing everyone here this early, especially children who woke up at 5 AM to be part of this program, I am truly thankful. A special thanks to our Health Minister, Sardar Balbir Singh Ji, for standing shoulder to shoulder with us to make this event a grand success.
"I also deeply appreciate the efforts of our administration and police forces, who have worked day and night to ensure all arrangements were perfect. Thousands of students have joined us today, and that shows the growing awareness of the importance of yoga. I appeal to everyone, make yoga a part of your daily life. It is essential for mental balance and physical well-being. To the children especially, I request: do yoga daily. I myself play squash and practice yoga for an hour each morning. A heartfelt thanks to our DC Sahab, Corporation Commissioner, and CP Ma’am for their support in executing this event so smoothly."
More on Jalandhar Yoga Event
Accompanied by Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal, Commissioner of Police Dhanpreet Kaur, Dr. Balbir Singh said it brought him immense joy to witness thousands of people joining hands with the government through CM di Yogshala. He noted that the initiative was launched two years ago from Jalandhar under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann Ji and presently around 3,200 yoga classes are conducted daily across the state, benefiting nearly one lakh people. The Health Minister added that trained yoga instructors have been appointed to teach yoga, and he appealed to everyone to make yoga an inseparable part of their lives in order to stay healthy and fit, helping Punjab become a truly healthy state.
Describing yoga as a boon for both physical and mental well-being, the Minister emphasized that the Yogshalas are helping Punjabis lead healthier lives. He stressed that maintaining good health and managing stress is the need of the hour, especially as people face multiple challenges in their daily lives. Dr Balbir Singh pointed out that rising stress levels are a major concern and yoga can play a significant role in combating this issue.
The Health Minister said that CM di Yogshala is a citizen-centric initiative and the brainchild of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. He noted that the program gained immense popularity in the national capital, benefiting a large section of the population. Inspired by its success, Bhagwant Mann led Punjab Government replicated the scheme to ensure similar benefits for the people of Punjab. Dr Balbir Singh envisioned that, in line with India’s ancient and glorious traditions, these Yogshalas would help make Punjabis healthier—both physically and mentally.
The Health Minister reiterated that yoga is essential for maintaining a fit body and a sound mind. He urged every individual to make yoga a part of their daily routine to remain hale and hearty. Dr Balbir Singh concluded by saying that it is crucial to maintain mental and physical balance by adopting a healthy lifestyle and practicing yoga regularly.
During the event, minister announced that the CM Di Yogshala program would soon be extended to rural areas as well. He highlighted that the initiative, launched by the Punjab Government under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has proven to be effective in the state’s anti-drug campaign ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’.
“Through yoga, individuals struggling with substance abuse are being mentally empowered,” said the cabinet minister, emphasizing that CM Di Yogshala is not just a wellness initiative, but a transformative step towards a healthier, drug-free Punjab.
Earlier Jalandhar Mayor Vaneet Dheer welcomed the dignitaries whereas eminent industrialist and AAP leader Nitin Kohli proposed a vote of thanks
On the occasion Mayor Jalandhar Vaneet Dheer, AAP leaders Nitin Kohli and Principal Prem Kumar, Health Secretary Kumar Rahul, Vice Chancellor Shri Guru Ravidas Ayurved University Hoshiarpur Dr. Sanjeev sood, Director Rajinder Singh Rihal, ADGP Naresh Arora and others were present.