With possibility of Prime Minister Narendra Modi visiting lucknow for a day on June 21 there is speculation that main function of the International Yoga Day will be held in the state capital
A senior BJP leader told The Pioneer that it is expected that main focus on international yoga day will be in lucknow probably because Prime Minister would be coming here for day. “Though, PMO has not cleared the trip but BJP leaders want that PM Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath should jointly take part in the mega event,” the leader said on condition of anonymity.
The rumors have started gaining grounds after Joint Secretary in AYUSH Ministry Anurag Srivastava held a meeting with Chief Secretary Rahul Bhatnagar about holding the event jointly by central and state governments.
The meeting that took place on Wednesday issued directives to Health department to work in tandem with the AYUSH department to hold this mega event. Bhatnagar had issued a statement claiming that 50,000 children would be taking part in this International Yoga Event. Officials were asked to look for a ground where 50,000 students can do Yoga.
“This Yoga camp could be led by Prime Minister. BJP has sent the request to PMO through proper channel but we are yet to hear from them,” the leader said.
The directives issued by the government said that children would be given small water bottles, T shirts and Yoga mat. These children will also be imparted training.
During Akhilesh Yadav regime International Yoga Day was celebrated at low key. Central Government organisations including CRPF held Yoga camp at KD Singh Babu stadium last year which was led by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. This camp was primarily attended by BJP leaders and officials of the Central Government.
With the change of Government the situation has taken a turn. Chief Minister Yogi has declared that Yoga should be made compulsory in schools and has asked sports teachers to learn Yoga during summer vacations and teach the same to students after June.