Guwahati, 21 June (HS): Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya on Sunday launched two major initiatives—PM Shri Gaonwe-Gaonwe Yoga Maha Abhiyan and Amar Mati-Amar Nayak—during the celebrations of the 12th International Day of Yoga at the historic Gandhi Ashram in Sualkuchi.

The programmes aim to promote healthy living, cultural awareness and patriotism across Assam. In the first phase, the initiatives will be implemented in six districts—Kamrup, Bongaigaon, Cachar, Jorhat, Kokrajhar and Sonitpur—before being expanded to other parts of the state.

Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, the PM Shri Gaonwe-Gaonwe Yoga Maha Abhiyan seeks to take the benefits of yoga to every village and household, encouraging a healthier lifestyle among citizens. The campaign aligns with this year’s International Day of Yoga theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” emphasizing lifelong physical and mental well-being.

The Amar Mati-Amar Nayak initiative focuses on identifying and honouring unsung local heroes whose contributions have enriched society. The programme is designed to preserve Assam’s heritage while inspiring younger generations through examples of service, sacrifice and duty.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Acharya described Sualkuchi as a symbol of self-reliance and praised its weavers for safeguarding Assam’s rich handloom tradition. He said the two initiatives would contribute to building a healthy, aware and self-confident society, adding that while yoga strengthens the body and mind, the ideals of great personalities strengthen the soul of a nation.

The Governor also paid tribute to Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi, Maniram Dewan and other known and unknown heroes of Assam. He later presented awards to winners of the district-level yoga competition organised by the Kamrup district administration. Several dignitaries, including MLA Prakash Chandra Das, senior government officials, yoga gurus and local representatives, attended the programme.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash