Gangtok (Sikkim) [India], June 21 (ANI): Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang led the 11th International Yoga Day celebrations in Gangtok on Saturday, emphasising the importance of yoga for personal and planetary well-being.

He extended his best wishes to everyone on this occasion and highlighted the state government's efforts to promote yoga among the masses. He called on to promote wellness tourism taht can make Sikkim a global destination, leveraging its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

'On the occasion of #InternationalYogaDay, I extend best wishes to everyone...The state government has made all efforts to ensure Yoga reaches the masses in the state...By promoting wellness tourism, we can make Sikkim a global destination', Prem Kumar Tamang told reporters.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday took part in the 11th International Day of Yoga celebrations, where he hailed yoga as a gift 'beyond age' that transcends all boundaries and unites humanity in 'health and harmony.'

The event took place against the scenic backdrop of the Visakhapatnam coastline, with Indian Navy ships stationed near the shore, adding to the grandeur of the celebrations.

The Prime Minister praised the efforts of the Andhra Pradesh government and extended his appreciation to Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena Party chief Pawan Kalyan for hosting the event in Visakhapatnam. He lauded their leadership as 'inspiring' and described the state's initiative to promote yoga as 'commendable.'

'Yoga is for everyone beyond boundaries, beyond backgrounds, beyond age or physical ability. It is a universal gift that unites humanity in health, harmony, and consciousness. Friends, I am truly delighted that we are gathered here in Visakhapatnam, a city that beautifully blends nature with progress. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Chandrababu Naidu Garu and Pawan Kalyan for hosting such a wonderful event under your inspiring leadership. It is commendable that the state of Andhra Pradesh has taken this meaningful initiative to promote yoga,' said PM Modi while addressing the gathering. (ANI)