DAINIK NATION BUREAU/DEHRADUN
The CISCE National Pre-Yoga Olympiad 2025 concludes at St. Joseph’s Academy, Dehradun, with a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of yoga, youthful determination, and India’s rich cultural legacy. As part of the grand closing ceremony, officials and judges associated with the Olympiad were felicitated for their invaluable mentorship, dedication, and contribution to the successful execution of the event. The ceremony brought together 150 participants from 15 CISCE regions including Andhra Pradesh & Telangana, Karnataka, Goa, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, North India, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. These young athletes showcased their skills across four categories: Under-14 and Under-17 Boys and Girls.
The event was graced by the Uttarakhand Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Rekha Arya, as the Chief Guest. She was welcomed by Reverend Brother Joseph M. Joseph, Principal of SJA. Later he highlighted the significance of yoga in nurturing both discipline and mental well-being in youth. In her address, Minister Arya commended the participants and lauded the role of CISCE and SJA in promoting holistic development. She also spoke about her commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure and empowering youth and women across the state.
Dignitaries present included Arijit Basu, Deputy Secretary (Finance) and Sports In-Charge, CISCE; Arnav Kumar Shaw, Manager of Games and Sports; Michelle A Gardner, Joint Regional Sports Coordinator, Uttarakhand Region; and Anuj Singh, Principal, Prakriti Valley School. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from principals, educators, and students of CISCE-affiliated schools across the region.
The program began with a prayer, setting a serene tone for the event, followed by a high-energy dance performance to the anthem “Aarambh Hai Prachand”, capturing the spirit of determination and discipline—core to yoga and youth empowerment.
The highlight of the day was the prize distribution ceremony, where the top four performers in each category were honored for their excellence, perseverance, and sportsmanship. The ceremony concluded with applause, joy, and a shared sense of accomplishment, reflecting the unifying power of yoga and the spirit of youthful excellence.
The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks by Mr. Arijit Basu, Deputy Secretary (Finance) and In-Charge of Sports and Games, CISCE. The ceremony came to a close with a soulful rendition of the National Anthem, echoing a collective sense of pride and unity. More than just a competition, the Olympiad emerged as a celebration of India’s spiritual and physical traditions, offering a platform for students from across the country to express themselves through yoga. It stood as a shining example of holistic education, focusing on developing the body, mind, and spirit.
In the words of Reverend Brother Joseph M. Joseph, Principal of SJA, the school was honored to host an event that fused tradition with youthful energy. Through flawless execution and heartfelt hospitality, St. Joseph’s Academy reaffirmed its status as a beacon of excellence, discipline, and national harmony.