On the occasion of World Health Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a powerful appeal to the nation—get fit, eat mindfully, and work together to build an obesity-free India. Framing health not just as a personal goal but as a patriotic duty, PM Modi emphasised that a fit population is vital to achieving the national vision of Viksit Bharat—a developed India.
“Health is Wealth” — More Relevant Than Ever
In a heartfelt video message shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister revisited the age-old wisdom, “health is the ultimate wealth,” warning of the silent epidemic creeping into Indian households—obesity. Backed by alarming projections, Modi revealed that by 2050, over 440 million Indians could be affected by obesity if preventive action isn't taken today. “This is not just a health issue. It is a national crisis in the making,” he said, calling for urgent attention and accountability from every citizen.
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On World Health Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a healthier world. Our Government will keep focusing on healthcare and invest in different aspects of people’s well-being. Good health is the foundation of every thriving society! pic.twitter.com/2XEpVmPza9
A Nation’s Fitness Starts in the Kitchen
PM Modi didn’t just diagnose the problem—he offered a simple, practical solution. Urging families to rethink their daily cooking habits, he proposed reducing cooking oil consumption by 10%. “It’s a small step in the kitchen, but a giant leap for our nation’s health,” he noted, linking everyday choices to national transformation.
He reminded citizens that dietary decisions are not just personal—they impact collective well-being. “Let’s treat this like a social responsibility. When you eat right, you’re not just taking care of yourself, you’re contributing to the health of the nation.”
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Move Daily, Move Together
Beyond diet, the Prime Minister made a strong case for incorporating physical activity into everyday life. Encouraging regular exercise as a non-negotiable part of routine, he said, “Daily fitness is essential. If we keep ourselves fit, it becomes our contribution to Viksit Bharat.”
He also reminded the country of the broader implications of poor health—higher healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and an increased burden on future generations.
The Numbers Are Stark
To drive home the urgency, PM Modi cited data from the World Health Organization. According to WHO, one in every eight Indians is currently dealing with obesity, and rates have surged across all age groups. Particularly alarming is the rise in childhood obesity, which has increased fourfold in recent years.
Obesity, he warned, is more than a cosmetic concern—it’s a gateway to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and mental health challenges. “But the good news is that small changes today can prevent major complications tomorrow,” he added.
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Public Figures Join the Fight Against Obesity
To amplify the message, PM Modi launched a ripple-effect campaign involving well-known personalities from diverse fields. He invited ten influential Indians—including sportspersons, actors, business leaders, and artists—to champion the cause of healthy living.
Among them were actor Mohanlal, athlete Mirabai Chanu, singer Shreya Ghoshal, philanthropist Sudha Murthy, and entrepreneur Nandan Nilekani. Each of them has been encouraged to nominate ten more individuals to widen the reach of the fitness movement.
Bottomline
PM Modi’s message on World Health Day was both an appeal and a challenge. It was a reminder that the health of the nation isn’t just in the hands of doctors or policymakers—it lies with each of us. Whether it's eating a little less oil, walking an extra kilometre, or inspiring friends and family to make healthier choices, these everyday actions collectively pave the road to a stronger, fitter India.
As the Prime Minister put it, “Good health is the foundation of every thriving society. Let’s build that foundation together.”