International Yoga Day 2025: ‘Yog Sangam’ Event in Goa Highlights India’s Yoga Diplomacy

Key Points for SSC, UPSC & Other Govt Exams

  • 11th International Yoga Day: Observed on 21st June 2025.
  • Theme of 2025: Yoga for One Earth, One Health.
  • Main National Event: Held in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh; PM Modi participated.
  • State-level Event in Goa: Yog Sangam organized at Pedem Sports Complex, Mhapussa.
  • Organizer: All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa.
  • Major Activities: Harita Yoga, Yoga sessions, quizzes, medical camps.
  • Guidance By: Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam & Prof. Dr. Mohan Joshi, AIIA Goa.

About the State Mentioned: Goa

  • Capital: Panaji
  • Chief Minister: Pramod Sawant
  • Governor: P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
  • Famous National Parks: Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park, Mollem National Park
  • Major Rivers: Mandovi, Zuari
  • Important Festival: Shigmo, Carnival
  • Famous Tourist Spots: Dudhsagar Falls, Basilica of Bom Jesus

Complete Blog on International Yoga Day 2025

International Yoga Day 2025 Celebrated with Enthusiasm Across India

The 11th International Yoga Day was observed globally on 21st June 2025, with lakhs of citizens participating in various yoga sessions from early morning. This year’s theme, “Yoga for One Earth, One Health,” emphasized the holistic benefits of yoga for both individuals and the planet.

The Government of India, through the Ministry of AYUSH, launched several nationwide programmes to mark this occasion, reinforcing India’s leadership in global wellness and traditional health systems.

National Event in Visakhapatnam Led by PM Modi

The main national ceremony was hosted at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, between 6:30 AM and 7:45 AM, graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. His presence underlined the government’s consistent effort to promote yoga globally. Simultaneously, more than 1 lakh yoga sessions were conducted across the country in schools, colleges, parks, and iconic locations.

Goa’s Main Celebration: ‘Yog Sangam’ at Pedem Sports Complex

In Goa, the central celebration titled ‘Yog Sangam’ was conducted at the Pedem Sports Complex, Mhapussa, under the aegis of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa.

A large number of school and college students, government officials, and local citizens from the Pedem and Mhapussa areas actively participated in this session, turning it into a vibrant community wellness initiative.

Highlights of Goa’s Yoga Celebrations

The event was conducted under the guidance of:

  • Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam, Dean, AIIA Goa
  • Prof. Dr. Mohan Joshi, Associate Dean, AIIA Goa

Activities included:

  • Harita Yoga sessions at heritage and tourist locations
  • Yoga in ancient temples, forts, and tourist spots
  • Medical camps, quizzes, and mass yoga sessions
  • Over 200 students participated in special outdoor drives

These events symbolized a blend of tradition, youth engagement, and public health awareness.

Why Yoga Day Matters: Cultural & Diplomatic Significance

India’s initiative to observe International Yoga Day, which was adopted by the United Nations in 2014, is now a global movement. It reflects the country’s commitment to:

  • Universal well-being
  • Cultural heritage preservation
  • Soft diplomacy through traditional knowledge

MCQs Based on the Topic

Important Facts Section

Andhra Pradesh (Main national event location):

  • Capital: Amaravati (legislative), Visakhapatnam (executive)
  • CM: Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy
  • Governor: S. Abdul Nazeer
  • Famous Rivers: Godavari, Krishna
  • Famous Temple: Tirumala Venkateswara Temple

Organization Mentioned – AIIA (All India Institute of Ayurveda):

  • Under Ministry of AYUSH
  • Headquarters: New Delhi
  • Established: 2017
  • Objective: Integration of Ayurveda in modern research & wellness

Exam-Oriented MCQs

Q1. Where was the main state-level Yoga Day celebration in Goa held in 2025?
A) Fatorda Stadium
B) Mandovi River Bank
C) Pedem Sports Complex
D) Dona Paula Park
Answer: C) Pedem Sports Complex

Q2. What was the theme of International Yoga Day 2025?
A) Yoga for Peace and Unity
B) Yoga for Climate Action
C) Yoga for One Earth, One Health
D) Yoga for Mental Strength
Answer: C) Yoga for One Earth, One Health

Q3. Which institution organized the ‘Yog Sangam’ event in Goa?
A) NIN
B) AIIA
C) NITI Aayog
D) ICMR
Answer: B) AIIA

Q4. The main national event of International Yoga Day 2025 was held in:
A) Varanasi
B) Ahmedabad
C) Visakhapatnam
D) Rishikesh
Answer: C) Visakhapatnam

Q5. Who is the current Chief Minister of Goa as of June 2025?
A) Laxmikant Parsekar
B) Pratapsingh Rane
C) Manohar Parrikar
D) Pramod Sawant
Answer: D) Pramod Sawant

UPSC-Style FAQs with Answer Writing Format

Q1. What is the significance of International Yoga Day in India’s global diplomacy?

Answer:
International Yoga Day, celebrated annually on June 21st, symbolizes India’s global outreach in promoting holistic health and well-being. Initiated by India and adopted by the United Nations in 2014, the day showcases the cultural and philosophical depth of yoga, aligning with India’s soft power strategy. Through state-sponsored initiatives, mass participation events, and global recognition, India has positioned itself as a leader in traditional wellness systems. The day serves both public health and international diplomacy objectives by promoting sustainable lifestyles.

Q2. Evaluate the role of institutions like AIIA in promoting Yoga and Ayurveda in India.

Answer:
Institutions like the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) play a pivotal role in mainstreaming traditional health sciences. As a premier body under the Ministry of AYUSH, AIIA integrates Ayurvedic knowledge with evidence-based practices. Their initiatives during Yoga Day, such as Harita Yoga, community sessions, and medical camps, help in increasing awareness, especially among youth and rural populations. Moreover, AIIA contributes to academic research, public policy input, and international collaborations, thus reinforcing the credibility and utility of Yoga and Ayurveda on both national and global platforms.

Q3. How does the celebration of International Yoga Day align with the concept of “One Health”?

Answer:
The 2025 theme “Yoga for One Earth, One Health” reflects the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Yoga promotes physical fitness, mental clarity, and lifestyle discipline, which are essential for personal well-being. Simultaneously, it encourages eco-conscious practices, like mindful consumption and sustainable living. By endorsing yoga, the government supports the One Health framework, which aims for integrated health solutions. Such alignment strengthens India’s health resilience, especially in the wake of global challenges like pandemics and climate change.