Mysuru: A three-day National seminar-cum-workshop on ‘Importance of Yoga in the education of children with Special needs’, began at All India Institute of Speech and Hearing (AIISH) in Manasagangothri here yesterday. The programme, organised by the Department of Special Education, AIISH, is funded by Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR).

Speaking after inaugurating the workshop, Prof. Y. Sreekanth, Principal, Regional Institute of Education (RIE), Mysuru, said that yoga has a history of over 3,000 years and it was important that we make yoga as a part of our daily life.

Pointing out that yoga plays a significant role in keeping one’s mind and physique clean and healthy, he said that the world is now realising the importance of yoga. Noting that yoga will certainly increase one’s intellectual capacity, he said that practising yoga helps in bringing about a miraculous change in one’s mental and physical health.

Referring to a survey conducted between 2002 and 2009, wherein it was found that visual disability was on the rise, although other sorts of ailments were on the decline among children, Prof. Sreekanth said visual problems among children can be attributed to addiction to gadgets such as cellphones, TV, computer etc.

Highlighting the role of teachers in sensitising children with special needs on the importance of yoga, he said that such workshops provide a perfect platform for the teachers to exchange ideas and information.

AIISH Director Prof. M. Pushpavathi presided. Prof. P. Manjula, Dr. Alok Kumar Upadhyay and others were present.

Over hundred special educators, allied professionals, mainstream teachers and NGO representatives are taking part in this workshop, which concludes on Feb.14.