Prime Minister’s Awards for Yoga 2024 – India

Yoga is an invaluable gift of ancient Indian tradition. The word “Yoga” is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj meaning “to join”, “to yoke” or “to unite”, symbolizing the unity of mind and body; thought and action; restraint and fulfillment; harmony between human and nature, and a holistic approach to health and well-being. Yoga is known for disease prevention, health promotion and management of many life style related disorders. Recognizing its universal appeal, on 11Th December 2014, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) passed a resolution (resolution 69/131) proclaiming 21ST June as the International Day of Yoga (IDY).

The awards are being proposed to be given each year for exemplary contribution in the field of Yoga towards the development and promotion of Yoga. It has been proposed that the contribution be recognized both at the National as well as International levels. The award would be given annually on the occasion of “International Day of Yoga (IDY)” (21st June). 21st June has been declared as IDY, commonly referred to as Yoga Day, by the United Nations General Assembly.

Award Categories

• The awards would be given in two categories – National and International. The awards would be given to entities with an impeccable track record and outstanding contributions to the promotion and development of Yoga. In a particular year, the Jury may decide to give awards to one or more individuals/organizations or none. An entity which has received an award once may not be considered again for conferring an award in the same category.
  • National: The two National Awards will be given to entities of Indian origin, for their contribution to the promotion and development of Yoga.
  • International: The two International Awards will be given to entities of Indian or foreign origin, for their contribution to the promotion and development of Yoga across the Globe.

Award Information

• The winners will be felicitated by means of a Trophy, Certificate and a Cash Award.
• The value of each Cash Award would be Rs 25 lakh.
• In the case of joint winners, the awards would be divided amongst the winners.
• The felicitation ceremony will coincide with the International Yoga Conference.

Eligibility Criteria

• The intent of the awards is to recognize entities who have made significant and outstanding contributions toward the promotion and development of Yoga.
• In this regard, the applicants/nominees for these awards should have a rich experience in and a deep understanding of Yoga.
• The minimum eligible age of the applicant/nominee under the individual category for both National & International is 40 years.
• Minimum 20 (Twenty) years of service with an impeccable track record and outstanding contribution to the promotion and development of Yoga.

Evaluation Criteria

• Contribution to the body of knowledge.
• Contribution to the promotion of Yoga among the masses as a means for mental, physical and spiritual health.
• Impact on the society by way of strengthening ethical and spiritual values.

For more information, visit Government of India.