PM Modi Sounds Alarm On India’s Rising Obesity Crisis—Calls For Urgent Action

PM Modi’s Urgent Call for a Healthier India

During the inauguration of the 38th National Games in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the alarming rise in obesity across the country. He underscored the importance of physical fitness, particularly among the younger generation, and urged citizens to take proactive steps toward healthier living.

“In our homes, ration comes at the beginning of the month. Till now, if you used to bring home two litres of cooking oil every month, then reduce it by at least 10 per cent. Reduce the amount of oil we use every day by 10 per cent,” PM Modi advised, highlighting the impact of excessive oil consumption on public health. His statement reflects a broader push toward dietary awareness and healthier consumption habits, aiming to curb the country’s increasing obesity rates.

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Economic Survey 2024-25: Processed Foods Driving Obesity Surge

Following PM Modi’s speech, the Economic Survey 2024-25, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, shed light on India's growing dependence on processed foods as a significant contributor to obesity. The report revealed that 54% of India's total disease burden stems from unhealthy diets, with a sharp increase in the consumption of highly processed foods loaded with sugars and unhealthy fats.

Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) further indicated a stark urban-rural divide in obesity prevalence. Urban men (29.8%) were significantly more affected than their rural counterparts (19.3%), suggesting that lifestyle factors such as fast food accessibility, reduced physical activity, and increased work-related stress play a pivotal role in the obesity epidemic.

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The Role of Fitness and Bollywood’s Take on the Issue

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, renowned for his disciplined fitness regime, took to social media to support the Prime Minister’s message. The actor, who often advocates for a healthy lifestyle, suggested four essential steps to combat obesity:

How true!! I’ve been saying this for years now…love it that the PM himself has put it so aptly. Health hai toh sab kuchh hai. Obesity se fight karne ke sabse bade hathiyaar
1. Enough sleep
2. Fresh air and Sunlight
3. No processed food, less oil. Trust the good old desi ghee… pic.twitter.com/CxnYjb4AHv — Akshay Kumar (@akshaykumar) January 30, 2025

• Sufficient sleep – Proper rest is crucial for metabolism and weight management.
• Fresh air and sunlight – Exposure to natural elements boosts overall well-being.
• No processed food, less oil—trust the good old desi ghee – Reducing refined and ultra-processed foods can significantly lower obesity risk.
• Regular exercise and workouts – A physically active lifestyle is key to maintaining a healthy weight.

His call to action resonated widely, further emphasizing the need for immediate changes in lifestyle choices.

Why Obesity is a Silent Epidemic in India

The rising obesity crisis in India is not just an issue of individual health but a national concern. The increasing burden on the healthcare system due to obesity-related illnesses calls for a multi-pronged approach, including:

• Public health campaigns to promote awareness about balanced diets and exercise.
• Stricter regulations on processed food industries to reduce sugar and trans-fat content.
• Incorporating fitness into daily routines at schools, workplaces, and community spaces.
• Encouraging home-cooked meals over fast food to maintain better nutritional intake.

Bottomline

PM Modi’s strong stance on the obesity crisis marks a crucial step toward a healthier India. However, tackling this issue requires collective efforts from individuals, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and food manufacturers. By making informed dietary choices, embracing active lifestyles, and limiting the intake of processed foods, Indians can significantly reduce the risks associated with obesity.

As the government takes initiatives to address this growing concern, the responsibility also lies with individuals to adopt healthier habits for a fitter and disease-free future. The time for change is now.