International Yoga Day 2025 Celebrated at ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna on the Theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health

Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur, Participates in Yoga Session with Staff and Students at ICAR-RCER, Patna

The International Yoga Day 2025 was celebrated with great enthusiasm at ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna, based on the theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health.” On this occasion, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur graced the event as the Chief Guest and actively participated in a group yoga session along with staff and students of the IARI Patna Hub. The staff from ATARI, Patna also took active part in the programme.

Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyay, Acting Director, ICAR-RCER, Patna extended a warm welcome to Hon’ble Minister Shri Ramnath Thakur and, in his address, elaborated on the importance, objectives, and holistic benefits—physical, mental, and spiritual—of the International Yoga Day. He stated that yoga connects the body with the soul, the mind with thoughts, and the intellect with wisdom, thereby enhancing decision-making capacity. He emphasized that yoga is not only needed today but should be integrated into daily life, as it increases work efficiency and sustains enthusiasm, joy, and energy. Even in adverse circumstances, yoga empowers individuals to lead life with ease and balance. 

All participants performed a 45-minute group yoga session as per the standard yoga protocol video issued by the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. The session included various yogasanas, pranayama, and meditation practices and concluded with a yoga prayer. The event aimed not only to promote individual health but also to foster ecological balance and a spirit of collective well-being.

In his inspiring address, Hon’ble Minister Shri Thakur stated:

“Yoga is not merely a physical discipline; it also symbolizes our deep connection and responsibility towards nature. When we perform yoga, we strengthen not only our own health but also take a step toward the well-being of the planet. The concept of ‘One Earth, One Health’ reflects this holistic approach.”

Expressing gratitude, Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyay, Acting Director of the Institute, remarked that the gracious presence of Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Ramnath Thakur, on the auspicious occasion of the International Day of Yoga is a matter of immense pride and honour for the institute. He also highlighted that while the institute plays a leading role in agricultural research for Eastern India, it equally prioritizes the overall physical and mental well-being of its staff. The celebration of Yoga Day is a strong expression of this commitment.

During the programme, insightful discussions on the interrelationship between yoga, diet, environment, and mental health were held. Around 150 participants took part in the programme with great enthusiasm.