By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
New Delhi: Marking the 12th International Yoga Day, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta led a mass yoga session near Neeli Jheel in the scenic Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, as the Delhi Government organised simultaneous yoga programmes across all 70 Assembly constituencies under the theme ‘One Delhi, One Yoga’.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described yoga as “an Indian way of life” that harmonises the body, mind and soul, saying it is far more than a physical exercise. She highlighted that the global recognition of International Yoga Day reflects India’s cultural leadership and said regular yoga promotes a healthy, balanced and positive lifestyle.
Calling Asola Bhatti one of Delhi’s “most precious natural treasures”, Gupta urged residents to explore its rich biodiversity, including Neeli Jheel, native forests and diverse wildlife. She praised ongoing conservation and afforestation efforts, noting that native species such as neem, peepal, banyan and mango are replacing invasive vegetation to strengthen the ecosystem.
The Chief Minister also reviewed plantation work and visited the Viksit Bharat Nursery, where initiatives to promote indigenous plant species and expand Delhi’s green cover are underway. She announced that the Delhi Government will launch a citywide ‘Clean Delhi, Green Delhi’ campaign with the onset of the monsoon, targeting the plantation of 70 lakh saplings this year with public participation from schools, colleges, institutions and community organisations.
Reinforcing the Centre’s ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, Gupta planted a sapling and appealed to every Delhiite to contribute to environmental conservation. She said yoga and nature together form the foundation of a healthy and prosperous society.
The Chief Minister also interacted with personnel of the 132 Infantry Battalion (Territorial Army) Eco Rajput Unit deployed at the Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, commending their role in protecting forests and preserving the environment alongside their service to the nation. The event was attended by Cabinet Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa, South Delhi MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri, senior officials, yoga instructors, students and hundreds of citizens.
