Yoga Images - Free Download on Freepik

In a renewed effort to establish yoga as a vital public health resource, the Union Ayush Ministry has rolled out an extensive framework titled “Yoga Protocol for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Target Groups.” This initiative is designed to confront the increasing prevalence of lifestyle diseases in India. The protocols were presented earlier this month by Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav during the Yoga Mahotsav 2026, and are being promoted as a preventive, evidence-based strategy that can be implemented in homes, educational institutions, workplaces, and healthcare facilities.

This initiative is particularly timely, as India is experiencing a significant surge in non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular issues, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health challenges. Official reports indicate that these health conditions now represent nearly two-thirds of all fatalities in the nation, highlighting a significant transition from infectious diseases to illnesses driven by lifestyle choices.

Created by the World Health Organisation Collaborating Centre for Traditional Medicine (Yoga) at the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga, which operates under the Ministry of Ayush, the protocols are designed as straightforward, accessible, and scalable modules. They are founded on scientific research and clinical observations, recommending a daily practice of 30 to 60 minutes that includes asanas, pranayama, meditation, and relaxation techniques.

Jadhav stated that this initiative signifies a broader transformation in the perception of healthcare. “Prevention is the future of healthcare, and yoga represents India’s solution to the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases,” he remarked, further adding, “Through these evidence-based protocols, we are enabling every individual to take control of their health and well-being in a straightforward, accessible, and sustainable way. By incorporating yoga into daily routines, we aim to transition the focus from illness to wellness, thereby alleviating long-term healthcare burdens.”

He also mentioned that the initiative demonstrates “our dedication to fostering a healthier nation through holistic, preventive, and people-centered strategies grounded in India’s rich traditional wisdom.”

What distinguishes these protocols is their specific design for various diseases. In the case of diabetes, the emphasis is on enhancing metabolic balance and glycaemic control. For hypertension, the practices aim to soothe the nervous system and stabilize blood pressure. Regarding bronchial asthma, the focus is on bolstering respiratory capacity and enhancing lung function. The report indicated that research and meta-analyses have consistently demonstrated that such integrated yoga practices can lead to significant improvements in clinical outcomes.

The Ministry has customized the initiative to cater to various age groups and life stages. The protocols encompass yoga modules designed for young children, routines focused on mental health for adolescents, mobility-enhancing practices for older adults, and specialized guidance for women and expectant mothers. In light of the increasing mental health issues, the modules also prioritize emotional well-being, incorporating breathing and meditation techniques aimed at alleviating stress, anxiety, and depression.

Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, stated that the protocols are “grounded in evidence and have been meticulously crafted to harmonize traditional knowledge with contemporary clinical insights.”

The launch further strengthens India’s initiative to establish yoga as a global wellness and public health strategy. By connecting structured yoga practices with public health objectives, the government aims to transform yoga from an occasional activity into a daily habit, while positioning it as a vital resource in India’s battle against modern health challenges.