Sri Vijaya Puram, June 2: A month-long Summer Yoga Camp for children and a parallel Training for Trainers programme on the Common Yoga Protocol concluded in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, marking a key step in preparations for the upcoming International Day of Yoga celebrations.
Organised by the Ayush Wing of the Directorate of Health Services and the Andaman and Nicobar State Ayush Society under the National Ayush Mission (NAM), the initiatives were conducted throughout May and culminated with a concluding session on May 30. The programmes formed part of a wider series of activities planned in the lead-up to the 12th International Day of Yoga, scheduled to be observed later this month.
The summer camp attracted enthusiastic participation from children who underwent training in various yogic practices, including asanas, pranayama, meditation and relaxation techniques. Organisers said the programme was designed to introduce children to the benefits of yoga at an early age and encourage them to incorporate healthy lifestyle habits into their daily routines.
During the month-long sessions, participants were guided through exercises aimed at improving flexibility, concentration, balance, discipline and overall physical and mental well-being. Instructors also emphasized the role of yoga in stress management and emotional resilience, aspects that have gained increasing attention in educational and public health discussions.
Officials associated with the programme said that encouraging children to embrace yoga from a young age can help foster lifelong habits that support holistic health. The camp was also intended to create awareness among families and communities about the broader benefits of yoga as a preventive and wellness-oriented practice.
Running simultaneously with the children’s camp was a specialised Training for Trainers programme focused on the Common Yoga Protocol prescribed by the Ministry of Ayush. The training was attended by departmental staff and yoga instructors who will play a central role in conducting and coordinating International Day of Yoga events across the Islands.
The Common Yoga Protocol serves as the standard framework for International Day of Yoga observances nationwide, ensuring uniformity in demonstrations and public participation programmes. Through the training sessions, participants received guidance on the correct techniques, sequencing and demonstration of yoga practices included in the protocol.
Officials said the trainer development initiative was aimed at strengthening institutional preparedness ahead of the large-scale yoga events expected to be held across schools, government offices, community centres and public spaces during the International Day of Yoga celebrations.
The programmes were conducted under the supervision of Dr. Nandini, Medical Officer In-Charge of Ayush Hospital, with the support of yoga instructors and departmental staff. Organisers acknowledged the active participation of trainees, instructors and children who contributed to the successful completion of the initiatives.
The conclusion of the programmes comes as awareness of yoga continues to grow across the country and internationally. Since the United Nations adopted International Day of Yoga in 2014, annual observances have become a platform for promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and healthy living practices among people of all age groups.
Health officials noted that yoga remains an accessible and low-cost wellness practice that can be adopted by individuals regardless of age or fitness level. The successful completion of the camp and training programme is expected to further boost participation in yoga-related activities across the Islands and support preparations for this year’s International Day of Yoga celebrations.
