District Collector M. Abhishikth Kishore has directed officials of all departments to work in coordination for the successful conduct of programmes planned in connection with the International Day of Yoga-2026 in Visakhapatnam district.Reviewing arrangements at a meeting held at the Collectorate on Monday, Mr. Kishore said four special yoga events would be organised in the district on June 9, 12, 15 and 21 in accordance with this year’s theme. He said two of the programmes would be held at prominent tourist destinations, while a special district-themed event for ex-servicemen would be conducted on June 9 at 6 a.m. at the Fleet Sports Ground of the Eastern Naval Command near the Satavahana last bus stop.The Collector directed the officials to begin preparations immediately for the district-level programme scheduled on June 21 as part of the State-level celebrations, which is expected to draw around 1,000 participants.About 600 people are expected to take part in the June 9 event, including 300 Navy personnel, 200 NCC cadets, 50 ex-servicemen and 50 district officials. The project director of the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) has been appointed as the nodal officer for the programme.Special yoga events will also be organised at Rushikonda on June 12 and at the Golf Club in the Mudasarlova area on June 15, with around 500 participants expected at each venue. Mr. Kishore instructed the Tourism Department officials to ensure adequate infrastructure, security arrangements and participant amenities.Calling upon government officials, employees, youth and representatives of voluntary organisations to participate actively, the Collector said: "Yoga can play a vital role in promoting a healthier society," and urged all stakeholders to contribute to the success of the programmes.Joint Collector G. Vidhyadhari and other officials attended the meeting. Published - June 08, 2026 07:05 pm IST