Dehradun: Arunoday Times
On the occasion of the International Day of Yoga, the Mussoorie-Dehradun Development Authority (MDDA) organized a grand yoga event at City Forest Park, bringing together nature, wellness, and community participation. More than 1,000 people took part in the mass yoga session, reaffirming their commitment to a healthy lifestyle and a healthier society.
The event was attended by Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan as the chief guest. He was joined by MDDA Vice Chairman and Additional Secretary to the Chief Minister Banshidhar Tiwari, MDDA Secretary Mohan Singh Barniya, government officials, representatives of various organizations, and a large number of local residents.
Amid the fresh morning air and lush green surroundings, participants performed yoga asanas, pranayama, and meditation under the guidance of trained instructors. Children, youth, and senior citizens enthusiastically participated and pledged to make yoga a regular part of their daily lives.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan said yoga is an invaluable gift of India’s ancient civilization that has guided the world toward healthier living. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for elevating yoga to a global movement and making it a part of millions of lives worldwide
MDDA Vice Chairman Banshidhar Tiwari said Uttarakhand has long been a land of yoga, spirituality, and meditation. He emphasized that the state government is committed to developing Uttarakhand as a global hub for yoga, Ayurveda, wellness, and natural healing.
At the conclusion of the event, MDDA honored yoga instructors with certificates of appreciation for their contribution to promoting awareness about yoga. The program also highlighted the importance of healthy living, environmental conservation, and a drug-free society.
Inspection of City Forest Park
Following the yoga session, Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan conducted a detailed inspection of City Forest Park and reviewed various facilities available to visitors. He inspected the children’s park, cycling track, open gym, 3D theatre, solar plant, nursery, EV charging station, cafeteria, and other public amenities.
Interacting directly with visitors, the Chief Secretary sought feedback on park facilities and directed officials to introduce a QR code-based digital feedback system, enabling citizens to share their suggestions and experiences more effectively.
He appreciated the park’s cleanliness, greenery, and modern infrastructure, describing City Forest Park as an excellent example of how urban communities can reconnect with nature.
MDDA officials stated that steps are being initiated to implement the Chief Secretary’s suggestions and further strengthen digital services and public amenities within the park.
