The West Bengal State Chapter of the Indian Yoga Association (IYA) convened a meeting on 23rd February 2025, at 2 PM at VYASYA, Kolkata. The meeting commenced with warm greetings to the Head Office staff, chapter members, and the West Bengal State Chapter representatives. The session was initiated with the permission of Dr. Abhijit Ghosh (Vice Chairperson) and Mrs. Mary Cecil. Key members present included Mr. Pankaj Bhagat (Secretary), Mr. Gour Gopal Saha, Mr. Rajesh Gupta (Treasurer), Mr. Tapan Barman, Mr. Amalan Kusum Patra, and Mr. Sishir Biswas (Past Treasurer).
A significant discussion revolved around the resignation of Mr. Indrarup Roy Chowdhury, who stepped down from the post of Joint Secretary due to personal organizational commitments. While he suggested his mother as a replacement, the chapter did not approve the proposal. Instead, the members unanimously agreed to nominate Mr. Gour Gopal Saha as the new Joint Secretary, pending formal approval from IYA’s Head Office.
Updates on the financial status were provided by Mr. Sishir Biswas, ensuring transparency in financial transactions. To enhance communication, the chapter decided to hold monthly online meetings and physical meetings every two months to monitor progress and ensure smooth coordination. Additionally, a plan was discussed to form District Committees to expand IYA’s activities into rural areas, operating through a volunteering program.
A key aspect of the discussion was the need for effective communication with IYA Chairperson Pujya Swami Atmajananda Ji Maharaj (Ramakrishna Mission, Belur). All meeting discussions and decisions will be shared with him for guidance and approval. Mr. Tapan Barman was assigned the responsibility of coordinating future meetings and keeping members informed.
The chapter also deliberated on advertisement strategies to promote IYA activities in West Bengal. Additionally, a correction in member selection was noted—Mr. Abhijit Sarkar was mistakenly omitted from the final list of selected members, and a formal request has been made to the IYA Head Office for rectification.
A dedicated meeting for Associate Centers and Life Members of IYA WB will be scheduled soon to strengthen member engagement. Furthermore, discussions took place regarding the management of IYA WB’s official social media platforms to enhance digital outreach and engagement. A formal request will also be sent to IYA’s Head Office to publish the names of all newly selected committee members on the official IYA website.
In an effort to strengthen the chapter’s digital presence, members considered creating a dedicated website for IYA WB. This website will feature details such as the list of members, Associate Centers, work history, and upcoming programs & activities.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous commitment to aligning efforts with IYA’s vision of expanding yoga awareness and education in West Bengal. A request will also be made to Pujya Swami Atmajananda Ji Maharaj for his blessings and guidance before proceeding with further activities. The schedule for the next meeting will be communicated soon.
