Sri VijayaPuram, Jun 20: In connection with the nationwide celebration of International Yoga Diwas and under the initiative of “Yoga Sangam 2025”, the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) for Skill Development, Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, A&N Islands, under NIEPMD (Divyangjan), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, organized one of its mega signature events on 21th June 2025 at CRC Campus, Port Blair.
This inclusive celebration was conducted in association with the Art of Living Foundation and marks one of the nine different yoga-based programmes CRC A&N Islands has planned across the UT to spread awareness about inclusive health, holistic wellness, and accessibility of yoga for Divyangjan.
A major highlight of the celebration was the inclusive yoga demonstration by children and adults with disabilities including locomotor, intellectual, autism spectrum disorders, and multiple disabilities. Supported by expert yoga trainers, the demonstration emphasized that yoga is adaptable and accessible to all.
The programme began with a welcome and lighting of the lamp, followed by the Keynote Address by Dr.Sumithamol, Director, CRC A&N Islands, who emphasized the integration of yoga into the rehabilitation and empowerment of Divyangjan.
The event was graced by Special Guest Mr.RavinderRao, a senior Yoga Teacher from Art of Living, who delivered an inspiring thematic talk on “Yoga for All: One Earth, One Health – An Inclusive Approach”. He shared insightful examples of how yoga benefits the mind, body, and soul, especially for persons with disabilities, and advocated for daily yoga in rehabilitation routines.
Ms.NidhiRao, Yoga Teacher from Happiness Yoga – Art of Living, actively participated in the inclusive yoga session and shared her thoughts on mindfulness and holistic health. Their presence added spiritual energy and community value to the event.
As part of the celebration, an online drawing competition was organized for children with disabilities and their siblings on the theme: “Yoga and Nature Connection.” The competition encouraged children to express their understanding of the harmony between self and nature through art.
Gifts were distributed to the special children during the celebration, recognizing their talent and participation. The entries reflected creativity, joy, and a deep connection with the core values of yoga.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mr. Ashok, Vocational Instructor at CRC, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Art of Living Foundation, guests, yoga teachers, CRC team members, caregivers, participants, and supporting departments for their collaborative efforts.
