NIT Rourkela, through the Centre for Mahanadi River Basin Management Studies (cMahanadi), organised “Ghat Par Yoga 2026” at Baikuntha Ghat on the banks of the Koel River on the occasion of the International Day of Yoga.

Conducted under the National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD), Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, the initiative brought together local community members, students, faculty, and yoga practitioners to strengthen the River-People Connect through yoga, meditation, and environmental awareness.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Rohan Dhiman, Registrar, NIT Rourkela, emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in conserving rivers and natural resources. Prof. Kishanjit Kumar Khatua, Coordinator and Head, cMahanadi, highlighted the interconnection between personal well-being, community health, and environmental sustainability through the message:

Healthy Body → Healthy Society → Healthy River → Healthy Life

The programme was attended by local residents of Jhirpani Gram Panchayat, including Shri Ajit Tirkey, Sarpanch, Jhirpani Gram Panchayat, who addressed the gathering on the importance of healthy rivers for the well-being and prosperity of society. He also highlighted the positive role of yoga in promoting physical and mental well-being.

The event reflects NIT Rourkela’s commitment to integrating scientific research, community outreach, and environmental stewardship towards sustainable river basin management and strengthening the connection between rivers and the communities that depend on them.