Yogandhra-2026: AP Sets Stage for Statewide Wellness Drive Ahead of June 21

Andhra Pradesh is set to launch one of the country's most ambitious public wellness campaigns, with the state government aiming to bring nearly one crore citizens under a common platform through Yogandhra-2026 , a massive yoga movement leading up to International Yoga Day on June 21. Designed around the theme "Yoga for Healthy Ageing," the initiative seeks to transform yoga from an annual celebration into a sustained lifestyle practice across the state.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, Health, Medical and Family Welfare Minister Satya Kumar Yadav outlined the government's extensive plans for the campaign, which will run from June 7 to June 20 . He said the initiative is aimed at promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and preventive healthcare while encouraging people of all age groups to embrace yoga as part of their daily routine.

The state government plans to involve citizens from every section of society, including farmers, women self-help group members, fishermen, tribal communities, students, youth organisations, transport workers and voluntary groups. As part of its long-term vision, the government has also set a target of creating 10 lakh regular yoga practitioners across Andhra Pradesh.

To support the programme, nearly 2.5 lakh yoga trainers will be deployed across the state, marking a significant increase from last year's campaign. The initiative has received additional momentum from the Education Department, with Minister Nara Lokesh introducing measures to integrate yoga into school education, helping students improve concentration, physical fitness and emotional resilience.

A dedicated War Room with advanced monitoring facilities is being established in Mangalagiri to coordinate activities among multiple departments and ensure smooth execution of the campaign. The government is also moving towards institutionalising yoga promotion through the proposed AP Yoga Prachara Parishad , which has received approval from Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu . The body is expected to oversee year-round yoga activities through three regional centres.

The campaign will formally begin at Lepakshi in Sri Sathya Sai district, while special events will be organised across all 28 districts with themes tailored to different communities. Yoga demonstrations are also planned at 56 major tourist destinations , showcasing the state's cultural and spiritual heritage.

The celebrations will culminate on June 21 with a grand event on the West Bypass Bridge across the Krishna River in Amaravati , where around 25,000 participants are expected to perform yoga simultaneously. Similar programmes will be held at district headquarters, schools, parks and government institutions across the state.

To ensure wider outreach, the government has also launched a digital learning initiative featuring free yoga, pranayama and meditation tutorials developed under the guidance of Dr. Manthena Satyanarayana Raju . Available through WhatsApp and the Sanjeevani App , the resources are expected to help citizens continue their yoga practice well beyond the campaign period.

With its focus on mass participation, digital engagement and long-term wellness, Yogandhra-2026 is poised to become a landmark public health initiative in Andhra Pradesh.