Tag: Heritage Conservation

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All India Institute of Ayurveda, Goa Conducts ‘Harit Yoga’ Activities at Heritage Sites

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Goa | June 2025 — In a harmonious blend of wellness, nature, and heritage, the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), Goa, conducted a series of ‘Harit Yoga’ activities across several iconic heritage locations in Goa. The initiative is part of a nationwide campaign to promote environmental consciousness, traditional wellness practices, and cultural preservation through the ancient art of Yoga.

Heritage Meets Holistic Health

The Harit Yoga campaign, which integrates Yoga and environmental awareness, was carried out at Goa’s celebrated heritage sites including temples, forts, and historic coastal spots. Participants included Ayurveda students, yoga instructors, local residents, and tourists, all coming together to practice yoga in green, open-air, culturally rich environments.

AIIA officials emphasized the importance of connecting India’s ancient healing systems with its natural and cultural landscapes, encouraging people to view health through a holistic and sustainable lens.

Objectives of the ‘Harit Yoga’ Activities

🌿 Promote Green Living – Inspiring communities to adopt eco-friendly practices through mindful living and nature-based routines.

🧘‍♂️ Encourage Outdoor Yoga – Taking yoga beyond studios into spaces where cultural heritage and natural beauty coexist.

🏛️ Raise Awareness of Heritage Conservation – Highlighting the need to protect India’s historical landmarks while using them as serene venues for public wellness.

♻️ Support Swasthya and Sanskriti (Health and Heritage) – Bridging Ayurveda, Yoga, and India’s diverse cultural traditions in an inclusive public outreach model.

Highlights from the Sessions:

  • Morning yoga practices set against the scenic backdrops of heritage structures
  • Guided sessions led by certified yoga instructors and AIIA faculty
  • Short talks on Ayurvedic lifestyle, seasonal wellness, and environmental stewardship
  • Distribution of herbal saplings and eco-friendly wellness kits
  • Interactive discussions on the role of traditional health systems in modern sustainable living

“Harit Yoga is more than just physical exercise. It’s a spiritual and ecological alignment—connecting the body, mind, and environment,” said a senior faculty member from AIIA Goa.

Broader Impact and Future Plans

The initiative received strong community participation and was praised for innovatively combining cultural education, wellness outreach, and environmental action. The All India Institute of Ayurveda aims to continue such activities across other parts of Goa and extend the model to other states in collaboration with the Ministry of AYUSH.

As India gears up for International Day of Yoga, campaigns like Harit Yoga not only encourage the practice of yoga but also nurture a deeper respect for India’s natural and historical legacy.

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Sinhagad Fort Remains Closed to Tourists Till June 4 Amid Anti-Encroachment Drive

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Pune, June 3, 2025 – The Forest Department has announced an extension of entry restrictions to Sinhagad Fort until June 4, as authorities continue with the final stages of a massive anti-encroachment drive at the historic site.

The operation, which began on May 29, aims to dismantle illegal reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structures constructed within the protected premises of the Sinhagad Fort, a heritage site and popular trekking destination near Pune.

🏰 Why the Fort Is Closed

According to Manoj Barbole, Range Forest Officer in charge of the site, the restrictions have been extended due to the inaccessibility of the fort to heavy machinery, which has slowed down the demolition process.

“Due to steep terrain and narrow access paths, we are unable to bring in heavy earthmovers. As a result, most of the illegal RCC structures are being dismantled manually by our teams,” said Barbole.

He added that strong wind conditions in the past few days have further impacted the timeline of the operation. Though significant progress has been made, one or two illegal structures still remain and are expected to be cleared over the next two days.

🚫 What’s Restricted

The closure applies to:

  • All visitors and tourists
  • Trekkers approaching via the fort’s popular foot trails
  • Local access for commercial or non-essential purposes

Officials emphasized that no entry will be allowed until the clearance operation is completed, in the interest of public safety and site preservation.

🛠️ Background on the Operation

The forest department initiated the demolition drive following a surge in unauthorized construction activities within the fort’s premises over recent years. These included:

  • Unauthorized stalls and eateries
  • Permanent RCC shelters for commercial use
  • Pathway encroachments impacting the environment and heritage value

The drive is part of a broader effort to preserve the fort’s ecological and historical integrity and enforce forest and heritage protection laws.

🌿 Why It Matters

Sinhagad Fort, with its panoramic views and deep historical ties to the Maratha empire, attracts thousands of tourists, trekkers, and history enthusiasts every month. However, illegal encroachments and unregulated tourism have led to:

  • Environmental degradation
  • Overcrowding
  • Waste management challenges
  • Structural stress on the heritage monument

The forest department’s current operation is seen as a critical step toward sustainable tourism and fort conservation.