Shaping a Healthier India: United Against Obesity

 Dr Suneet Kumar Verma and Dr Sanjay Kalra

“India is paving the way toward a healthier future through unified action, sustained commitment, and citizen participation—transforming the vision of a Fit and Healthy India into reality.”

Obesity has become a major public health concern in India, affecting people of all age groups, spheres, and increasing the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.

The rise in obesity is mainly driven by factors such as poor dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and changing social and environmental conditions. The growing reliance on processed foods and reduced physical activity has contributed to the problem in both urban and rural areas.

Recognizing the urgency of this issue, national efforts have focused on creating awareness and promoting healthier lifestyles. Initiatives such as the Fit India Movement, National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD), POSHAN Abhiyaan, Eat Right India, and Khelo India aim to encourage better nutrition, regular exercise, and long-term behavioral changes to improve health outcomes.

As India enters the Amrit Kaal phase, a coordinated approach involving policy reforms, community participation, and robust regulatory measures is being implemented to address obesity. Efforts are focused on strengthening public health systems and promoting sustainable, healthy eating practices.

Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21) reveal slightly higher incidences in women (24%) compared to men (23%) in India who are overweight or obese. Among children under five, the prevalence of overweight has risen from 2.1% to 3.4%.

These escalations underscore the urgent need for collective, sustained action to reverse the trend and protect the health of future generations.

(Source: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Towards a Fit and Healthy India: Combating Obesity Through Collective Action [Internet]. New Delhi: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; 2025 Feb 28 [cited 2025 Nov 12]. Available from: https://static.pib.gov.in/WriteReadData/specificdocs/documents/2025/mar/doc202531511001.pdf)