Yoga would now be taught as a compulsory subject not only from class VI to X in Central Government-run schools but also as a training module in teacher education programmes.

HRD Minister Smriti Irani on Monday said a national-level yoga competition would be organised in Delhi in 2016, where the best performing student will be given a cash prize of Rs five lakh.

Ms. Irani said the subject would not put any additional burden on students as 80 marks would be reserved for practicals.

“However, I want an assurance from students that they will perform the practicals with full devotion,” she said.

NCERT books on app

“We have prepared syllabus for teachers as well. One is diploma in yoga education, bachelors in yoga education and masters in yoga education,” the Minister said.

She said that a mobile app will be launched on July 17, where NCERT books from class I to XII can be downloaded free.