Key Facts
The West Bengal government has issued a directive making it mandatory for all state government employees to participate in the 12th International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2026. The order, issued by Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Agarwal on June 14, requires all staff—including permanent, contractual, part-time, casual workers, outsourced personnel, and those on honorarium—to join the programme from 6:30 am to 7:45 am.
Details of the Order
The directive applies to all departments, PSUs, autonomous bodies, and local bodies. Employees are expected to participate from their offices, homes, or designated venues such as Red Road and Milan Mela if nominated. The order emphasizes that yoga promotes physical and mental well-being, aligning with the global observance.
Main Event and Dignitaries
The primary event will be held at Red Road in Kolkata, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari will be present. This marks PM Modi's first public appearance in West Bengal since the BJP-led government assumed power. The Department of Health and Family Welfare has conducted multiple training sessions across the state in preparation.
Paschimbanga Dibas Celebration
Coinciding with the Yoga Day preparations, West Bengal will observe 'Paschimbanga Dibas' on June 20, 2026, at the same Red Road venue. The celebration honors the state's history, culture, and heritage. PM Modi is also scheduled to attend this event. Traffic diversions have been implemented on Red Road for stage construction.
Background and Controversy
The previous government observed the first day of Poila Baisakh (Bengali New Year) as 'Bangla Dibas'. In September 2023, the Assembly passed a resolution with 167 MLAs in favor and 62 against, designating June 20 as West Bengal Foundation Day. This date marks the day in 1947 when Shyama Prasad Mookerjee proposed the partition of Bengal, which the BJP views as pivotal for a Hindu homeland. The choice of June 20 had earlier sparked controversy when Raj Bhavan observed it as Foundation Day.
What Readers Should Know
- Participation is compulsory for all state government employees, including contractual and outsourced staff.
- The main event runs from 6:30 am to 7:45 am on June 21, 2026, at Red Road and Milan Mela.
- PM Modi and CM Suvendu Adhikari will attend both the Yoga Day and Paschimbanga Dibas events.
- Training sessions have been held statewide to ensure smooth conduct.
FAQ
Is Yoga Day participation mandatory for all West Bengal government employees?
Yes, the state government has made participation compulsory for all employees, including contractual, part-time, and outsourced staff.
When and where is the main Yoga Day event in West Bengal?
The main event will be held on June 21, 2026, from 6:30 am to 7:45 am at Red Road and Milan Mela in Kolkata.
Who will attend the main Yoga Day event in Kolkata?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari are scheduled to attend the event at Red Road.