Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has initiated steps for introduction of yoga and pranayama sessions in schools in an effort to improve students’ health and concentration in their studies.
According to sources, schools will conduct a 10-minute yoga session for their students as per guidelines laid down by the government. The School and Mass Education department recently sent a communication in this regard to the authorities concerned.
Guidelines have also been issued by the Directorate of Secondary Education for holding the yoga session after the prayer meeting in schools. The yoga asanas that can be performed while standing are to be selected for the session.
The move came on the basis of the decisions taken in the review meeting held earlier under the chairmanship of the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Odisha School and Mass Education department.
An important decision taken in the meeting on games and sports activities was that after payer class, the PETs of the schools shall conduct some standing yoga/ pranayam/physical exercise for a minimum of 10 minutes, which shall activate the children’s body and mind to concentrate on studies.
Similarly, the schools have been suggested to identify talents for national-level competitions. The schools that perform well at the district level will get kits. The team selected for the national level event will receive training in Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.