Obesity has emerged as a significant public health issue in India, impacting individuals of all ages and increasing the likelihood of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. Factors such as unhealthy eating patterns, sedentary lifestyles, and environmental influences are driving the obesity epidemic, which affects both urban and rural populations. The transition to processed foods and limited physical activity has worsened this problem.

 

In his recent Mann Ki Baat address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the urgent need for collective action to combat obesity, emphasizing reduced consumption of edible oils and advocating widespread awareness. To lead this movement, he enlisted influential figures from across India. This initiative underlines the importance of addressing obesity on both personal and community levels to build a fitter, healthier nation. The Government of India has introduced several initiatives, such as the Fit India Movement, NP-NCD, POSHAN Abhiyaan, Eat Right India, and Khelo India, to promote healthy living, improved nutrition, and physical activity. As the country progresses toward Amrit Kaal, a collaborative approach involving government policies, community efforts, and regulatory measures is being implemented to combat obesity. Strengthening public health systems, promoting sustainable eating habits, and increasing awareness are crucial to reversing this trend and safeguarding future generations.

 

Understanding Obesity: Definition and Causes

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as the abnormal or excessive accumulation of body fat that poses health risks. The Body Mass Index (BMI) is the standard metric used to classify obesity. A BMI of 25 or higher indicates overweight, while a BMI of 30 or above is categorized as obese. In India, overweight is defined as a BMI between 23.0 and 24.9 kg/m², and obesity begins at a BMI of 25 kg/m². Individuals with a BMI of 35 or higher are considered morbidly obese.

 

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple calculation to determine whether an adult’s weight is within a healthy range. It is computed by dividing a person’s weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters (kg/m²).According to WHO, a healthy BMI ranges between 18.5 and 24.9.

Global and Indian Obesity Statistics

Globally, the prevalence of obesity has risen steadily among children and adults. Between 1990 and 2022, childhood and adolescent obesity (ages 5–19) increased from 2% to 8%, while adult obesity grew from 7% to 16%.

In India:

• According to NFHS-5 (2019-21), 24% of women and 23% of men are either overweight or obese.

• Among individuals aged 15–49, 6.4% of women and 4% of men are obese.

• The percentage of overweight children under 5 years rose from 2.1% in NFHS-4 (2015-16) to 3.4% in NFHS-5 (2019-21).

Obesity in India is fueled by unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and lifestyle changes. Urbanization, increased consumption of processed foods, and limited exercise further exacerbate this issue.

Government of India's Strategic Framework for Obesity Prevention

To address obesity, the Indian government has implemented a multi-faceted approach through various ministries. These interventions focus on integrating health, nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle modifications.

1. Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW): Strengthening Public Health Responses

The National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) under the National Health Mission focuses on:

• Promoting behavior change through community involvement and awareness campaigns.

• Early screening, diagnosis, management, and follow-up of NCDs.

• Training healthcare providers and improving access to essential medicines and equipment.

2. Ministry of AYUSH: Holistic Wellness Practices

The Ministry of AYUSH promotes traditional systems of health through initiatives like:

• Ayurvedic treatments and yoga therapy for obesity at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA).

• Research on Ayurvedic interventions for obesity and related disorders.

• The Ayurswasthya Yojana, which integrates AYUSH practices into public healthcare.

3. Ministry of Women and Child Development: POSHAN Abhiyaan

Launched in 2018, POSHAN Abhiyaan focuses on improving nutrition for children, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Key components include:

• Poshan Vatikas (nutritional gardens) for homegrown nutrition.

• Strengthened Anganwadi services and community awareness programs.

4. Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports: Promoting Physical Fitness

• Fit India Movement: Launched in 2019, it encourages daily physical activity.

• Khelo India Programme: Aims to develop sports infrastructure and promote athletic excellence, ensuring participation across rural and urban areas.

5. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI): Regulating Food for Public Health

• Eat Right India Movement: Educates the public on healthy eating and food safety.

• ‘Aaj Se Thoda Kam’ Campaign: Promotes reducing fat, sugar, and salt intake.

• RUCO Initiative: Safely repurposes used cooking oil to prevent health risks.

Obesity is a pressing health challenge in India, but the country is tackling it through coordinated initiatives. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, programs like Fit India, NP-NCD, POSHAN Abhiyaan, and Eat Right India are fostering awareness, healthier habits, and active lifestyles. By combining policy reforms, community efforts, and individual action, India is paving the way for a healthier future. With continued commitment, the nation can reverse obesity trends and serve as a global model for combating lifestyle diseases.