June 21: Universities to observe International Yoga Day

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has asked all universities to observe June 21 as International Yoga Day, an official statement said has said. Secretary Jaspal S. Sandhu, in a letter dated April 17, said the idea of declaring an International Yoga Day was formally proposed by the prime minister in his maiden address to the 69th UN General Assembly on September 27. In a letter was shared on the UGC website.

The secretary added that the government has decided to give ‘practical effect’ to the resolution by ensuring that the first International Yoga Day is “commemorated in a befitting manner”.

“You are, therefore, requested to kindly observe International Day of Yoga on 21st June, 2015 in your esteemed university and colleges affiliated to your university,” the letter said. “You may also ensure that the promotional films and other Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material on yoga should be distributed,” it added.

The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution last year to observe International Yoga Day on June 21 every year.