Five-day Yoga orientation cum training organised by Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyhan (RMSA) under Directorate of School Education for physical education teachers under Kohima district got underway on Tuesday at Ura Academy Hall, Kohima.
The teachers would be trained by Yoga instructor, Kelhouzosei Lawrence who was trained from Morarji Desai, National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), Delhi.
On debate on Yoga being a religious practice, RMSA mission director, Limawapang Aier clarified that Yoga was only physical exercise which was beneficial for one’s health.
Aier said that, in the past, there has been a “politically motivated argument” in regard to Yoga being related to the practices and belief of Hindus. He said Yoga has nothing to do with any religion though it was mostly practices by the Hindus.
The mission director advised the teachers to learn as best as they could and propagate the same to the students in their respective schools. Aier was also doubtful whether teachers impart whatever has been taught to them to the students.
He informed that training for the second batch has been approved which would be held very soon and expressed desired to continue the training in future.
Deputy Director (PE) T Lipok Jamir explained that yoga was not Hinduism propaganda as believed by many but a physical exercise for fitness. He urged the teachers to learn something and educate the students at their schools.
The training programme for the first batch was attended by twenty-two physical education teachers and would conclude on March 18.