The Government of India inaugurated Yoga Mahotsav–2026 in New Delhi, marking the 100-day countdown to the 12th edition of the International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026. The event was organised by the Ministry of Ayush, the nodal ministry responsible for coordinating the global celebrations of the International Day of Yoga.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
| Event | Yoga Mahotsav 2026 |
| Location | New Delhi |
| Purpose | 100-day countdown to International Day of Yoga 2026 |
| Organised by | Ministry of Ayush |
| Edition of IDY | 12th |
The event aims to promote the diverse dimensions of Yoga and inspire a global movement for health, well-being, and peace.
Growth of International Day of Yoga
The International Day of Yoga has witnessed rapid global expansion since its inception.
| Indicator | Details |
| First International Day of Yoga | 2015 |
| Editions organised | 11 editions completed |
| Global participation | Continually increasing |
| Participation in IDY 2025 | Over 26 crore people worldwide |
The day has evolved into a global celebration of wellness and holistic health.
Launch of “10 Yoga Protocols for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)”
A major initiative launched during the event was “10 Yoga Protocols for Non-Communicable Diseases and Target Groups.”
- Objective: To provide structured Yoga practices tailored to different age groups and health conditions.
Benefits
- Improve physical health
- Enhance mental resilience
- Promote preventive healthcare
- Improve overall quality of life
These protocols encourage individuals to take greater responsibility for their health through Yoga practice.
“Yoga for Air Travel” Protocol
The Minister also launched a new “Yoga for Air Travel” protocol.
Features
| Feature | Description |
| Duration | 5 minutes |
| Activities | Seated yoga practices, breathing exercises, short meditation |
| Objective | Reduce travel stress and fatigue |
Benefits
- Improves blood circulation during flights
- Reduces muscular discomfort
- Promotes mental calmness during travel
Yoga 365 Campaign
As part of the countdown to IDY 2026, the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY) signed an MoU with Habuild under the Yoga 365 campaign.
- Objective: Encourage daily yoga practice throug hout the year.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
| Daily online Yoga sessions | Free for participants |
| Campaign purpose | Make Yoga a daily habit |
| Registration helpline | 1800-315-7008 |
AI-Based Yoga Guidance Tool
The Ministry of Ayush has developed an AI-based Yoga posture correction tool under the Ayush Grid.
Purpose
- Guide Yoga practitioners
- Correct Yogasana postures
- Improve safety and effectiveness of practice
Yoga Training Programmes
Yoga courses are being expanded through digital platforms.
Advanced Y-Break Programme
Available on the Karmayogi Bharat platform.
| Indicator | Details |
| Participants enrolled | Over 10 lakh |
| Purpose | Promote short workplace Yoga routines |
Common Yoga Protocol Demonstration
The day began with a live demonstration of the Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) at the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga.
Components of CYP
- Yogasanas (Yoga postures)
- Pranayama (breathing exercises)
- Meditation
Benefits
- Improves flexibility
- Enhances strength and balance
- Promotes mental harmony
Over 1,000 Yoga enthusiasts participated in the session.
Technical Sessions at Yoga Mahotsav 2026
The event included three thematic technical sessions.
| Session Theme | Focus Area |
| Yoga for the Geriatric Population | Health benefits for elderly people |
| Business Module for Yoga Entrepreneurship | Opportunities in Yoga industry |
| Yoga and Artificial Intelligence | Integration of Yoga with emerging technologies |
Participation
Approximately 1,500 participants attended the event, including:
- Yoga masters
- Scholars
- Policymakers
- Government officials
- Corporate professionals
- Yoga practitioners
- Experts from allied sciences
Significance
- Marks the 100-day countdown to International Day of Yoga 2026.
- Strengthens India’s leadership in global wellness and Yoga promotion.
- Introduces health-focused Yoga protocols for NCD prevention.
- Encourages daily Yoga practice through digital campaigns.
- Integrates technology such as AI with traditional Yoga practices.