The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a certificate programme in yoga (CPY) ahead of the upcoming international yoga day that would commence from July session,the varsity said Sunday. IGNOU’s School of Health Sciences (SOHS) launched the programme under which the learner shall understand the basic principles and practice of yoga. The varsity said the programme also aims to make those who pursue the course aware about the history and the contribution of various yogis in the field of yoga and attain both physical and mental health through yoga. A student who has passed Class XII from any recognized board is eligible for the programme. The medium of instruction will be English and the minimum duration of course is six months. students will be given maximum of two years to pass the course. Candidates will have to pay a fee of Rs. 10,000 for the entire programme. The programme will be offered through regional centres of Delhi, Dehradun, Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Jaipur, Ladnun, Chennai, Mumbai and Pune and will have three courses with 16 credits. “Yoga is essentially a practice based on an extremely subtle science, which focuses on bringing harmony between mind, body and spirit. It is a very powerful means to achieve physical, mental and emotional well being. Yoga paves the way to discover the self, the external world and nature. It is an art and science for healthy living. Yoga has several benefits including education, health and stress management,” said IGNOU in a release Source: PTI