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Time of India

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini flags off state-level yoga marathon in Kurukshetra, drive for drug-free, fit youth; green campaign ahead 21 June

Haryana's CM Nayab Singh Saini flagged off a Yoga Marathon at Kurukshetra, initiating a campaign for a drug-free state ahead of International Yoga Day KURUKSHETRA: Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini flagged off a state-level Yoga Marathon at the sacred Brahma Sarovar in Kurukshetra, describing it as a 'Sankalp Yatra' (resolve journey) towards a yoga-rich and drug-free Haryana. The event was organised under the aegis of the Haryana Sports Department, AYUSH Department, Haryana Yoga Commission, and the district administration, with large participation from youth, women, and elderly citizens across the state. CM Saini emphasised that the campaign, in the run-up to International Yoga Day on 21 June, has already connected with over 19.27 lakh people across Haryana. He praised the public's enthusiasm, stating, 'This yoga marathon on the holy land of the Bhagavad Gita has become a strong movement to steer our youth away from drugs and towards a healthier, more purposeful life.' During the inauguration, CM Saini showered flower petals on the runners to encourage them and later addressed the gathering. A total of Rs 3.46 lakh in cash prizes was awarded to the top 20 winners. Among them were Gaurav and Monika from Sonipat, each receiving Rs 51,000. The marathon not only promoted yoga but also raised awareness about sports, culture, and environmental consciousness. Highlighting the upcoming International Yoga Day celebrations, CM Saini announced that people would get the opportunity to perform yoga alongside Swami Ramdev at Brahma Sarovar on 21 June. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villa For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas in Dubai | Search ads Learn More Undo Online registration for the event is already open. Saini also stressed the importance of daily physical activity and urged citizens to dedicate at least one hour to health and wellness. 'Yoga enhances our energy and efficiency. A healthy person contributes more effectively to national progress,' he said. Yoga Campaign Supports National Development Linking the yoga initiative with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of a 'Developed India by 2047', CM Saini said, 'Drug abuse is a social evil that obstructs national development. Our youth are the nation's greatest assets, and protecting them from drugs is our duty.' He added that the International Yoga Day theme, 'One Earth, One Health', aligns with Haryana's campaign for a yoga-filled and drug-free society. The campaign has also taken on an environmental aspect. So far, 67,508 saplings have been planted under the Green Yoga Movement. Over 9.90 lakh people have engaged digitally with the campaign, while 38,000 AYUSH participants and 1.38 lakh Sports Department members have taken part in on-ground activities. Upcoming Plans The Yoga Awareness Journey will continue until 19 June, covering 5,000 villages in Haryana. On 21 June, organisations such as Patanjali Yog Peeth, Brahma Kumaris, Art of Living, and Bharatiya Yoga Sansthan will conduct yoga camps at 2,500 locations. Additionally, 10 lakh medicinal plants will be distributed and planted. CM Saini also announced the launch of a 5-minute 'Y-Break' in offices to help employees reduce stress during work. The event was attended by several dignitaries including former Minister Subhash Sudha, Sports Department Director and Ambala Division Commissioner Sanjeev Verma, Deputy Commissioner Neha Singh, Superintendent of Police Nitish Aggarwal, BJP District President Tejinder Singh Goldy, Yoga Commission Chairman Dr Jaideep Arya, and others. The marathon reflected the state government's holistic vision for youth empowerment, drug de-addiction, environmental protection, and cultural preservation through the practice of yoga. Follow more information on Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad here . Get real-time live updates on rescue operations and check full list of passengers onboard AI 171 .