<span style="color: #222222;">The International Conference on Yoga for Public Health was inaugurated at Kala Academy, Panjim today morning. Union minister of state for Ayush Shripad Naik and founder of The Art of Living Sri Sri Ravi Shankar were present on the occasion, among others. The conference is being organised by the Ayush ministry.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Speaking on the occasion, Mr Naik said yoga has a significant potential role in the country's public health system and is gaining popularity as a mode of alternative therapy. Mr Naik said the global popularity and recognition of yoga is evident from the fact that around 20 million people practice yoga in the US and the US military has included yoga in its curriculum.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">In a video message, union minister Suresh Prabhu, said that yoga is the answer to the public health challenge considering the high cost of healthcare and side effects of modern medicines, among other factors. Mr Prabhu thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for taking yoga to a global platform.</span><br />'' <br />'' <span style="color: #222222;">Representatives from around 50 countries are participating in the two-day conference. Earlier today morning, Mr Naik flagged off a Run for Yoga in Panjim.</span><br />