Is Yoga's Popularity Rising in Central Asia? Insights from Experts in Uzbekistan
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Synopsis
The 7th ICCR International Yoga Conference 2025 in Uzbekistan brought together experts from 10 countries, delving into the rising popularity and challenges of Yoga in Central Asia. With a focus on integrating Yoga into healthcare, this landmark event highlights India's commitment to promoting Yoga's benefits across the region.
Key Takeaways
- Yoga's popularity is rising in Central Asia.
- The conference emphasized integrating yoga into healthcare systems.
- Experts from 10 nations participated, showcasing collaboration.
- India offers support for teacher training in Uzbekistan.
- The event aims to promote yoga among the youth of Central Asia.
Tashkent, Sep 18 (NationPress) Emphasizing the increasing significance of Yoga in Central Asia, the 7th ICCR International Yoga Conference 2025 held in Uzbekistan on Thursday convened specialists from 10 countries, including India, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Georgia, Armenia, Mongolia, and Russia, to deliberate on the 'Challenges and Opportunities for Yoga in Central Asia'.
This inaugural International Yoga Conference in Central Asia, themed 'Yoga for One Earth One Health', was orchestrated by the Indian Embassy in Tashkent, under the auspices of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) in New Delhi, in collaboration with the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan and with the backing of the Uzbek Ministry of Sports, on September 17 and 18.
During Thursday's interactive plenary session, led by Ram Narayan Mishra, an official from the Ministry of Ayush, discussions revolved around integrating yoga into both traditional and modern healthcare practices, facilitating dynamic exchanges among Central Asian health leaders, the Ministry of Ayush, and yoga institutions.
The discussions also delved into the future of holistic healthcare, merging ancient wisdom with contemporary medical practices.
Earlier, in her opening address, India's Ambassador to Uzbekistan, Smita Pant, acknowledged the growing interest in Yoga in Uzbekistan and extended India's assistance in training teachers and enhancing capacity. She also highlighted the World Health Organization's recognition of the physical and mental benefits of Yoga.
Abhay Kumar, Deputy Director General of ICCR, remarked on this being the first international conference on Yoga organized by ICCR in Central Asia, noting robust participation from Eurasian nations. He expressed confidence that this initiative would significantly boost yoga's appeal among the youth of Uzbekistan and other participating countries.
The International Yoga Conference is a prestigious annual event by ICCR. Previous conferences took place in New York (2018), London (2019), New Delhi (2021), Seoul (2022), Meinberg, Germany (2023), and Durban (2024).
In addition to the interactive plenary session on 'Integrating Yoga into Traditional and Modern Healthcare Systems: Local Healing Traditions & Modern Medical Practices from Central Asia', there were panel discussions addressing the current status, challenges, and opportunities for yoga in Central Asia, the benefits of yoga for chronic health conditions, recent trends and innovations, and skill development in yoga.
Point of View
I believe the 7th ICCR International Yoga Conference marks a pivotal moment for Yoga's evolution in Central Asia. This gathering of experts from various nations not only showcases the increasing interest in Yoga but also emphasizes the collaborative efforts to enhance healthcare through this ancient practice. It's an important step towards holistic well-being for the region.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the focus of the ICCR International Yoga Conference?
The conference focused on discussing the challenges and opportunities for Yoga in Central Asia, emphasizing its integration into traditional and modern healthcare systems.
Which countries participated in the conference?
Experts from 10 countries participated, including India, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Georgia, Armenia, Mongolia, and Russia.
Who organized the event?
The event was organized by the Indian Embassy in Tashkent, under the aegis of the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR) and the Yoga Federation of Uzbekistan.
What are the benefits of Yoga recognized by the WHO?
The WHO recognizes various physical and mental benefits of Yoga, contributing to overall health and wellness.
Is this the first Yoga conference in Central Asia?
Yes, this is the first-ever international Yoga conference held in Central Asia, marking a significant milestone in the region's approach to holistic health.
