New Delhi [India]: In a major push toward public health, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for a nationwide campaign to combat obesity and promote healthier eating habits.
Speaking during the 119th episode of Mann Ki Baat on February 23, PM Modi expressed concern over the rising obesity levels in India, particularly among children. He cited alarming statistics, revealing that obesity cases have doubled in recent years, with one in every eight Indians affected.
Reducing Oil Consumption: A Simple Step for Better Health
To address this growing issue, PM Modi urged citizens to reduce their monthly oil consumption by 10%, emphasizing that small changes in diet can lead to significant health benefits.
“In order to build a fit and healthy nation, we must address the issue of obesity. We need to reduce oil consumption by 10 per cent every month. When purchasing oil for cooking, aim to buy 10 per cent less. This will be a significant step toward reducing obesity and improving our health,” PM Modi said.
He highlighted how minor dietary adjustments could contribute to a healthier and disease-free future.
Social Media Challenge to Spread Awareness
To extend the campaign’s reach, PM Modi used his X handle to nominate several influential personalities, challenging them to spread awareness about obesity and the benefits of reducing oil consumption.
He tagged business leader Anand Mahindra, actor-politician Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua), athlete Manu Bhaker, weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, actors Mohanlal and R. Madhavan, singer Shreya Ghoshal, and author-politician Sudha Murty, asking them to take up the challenge and nominate 10 more people each.
“As mentioned in yesterday’s #MannKiBaat, I would like to nominate the following people to help strengthen the fight against obesity and spread awareness on reducing edible oil consumption in food. Let’s work together to make India fitter and healthier,” PM Modi posted.
Athletes and Leaders Support the Initiative
Renowned Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra backed the campaign, sharing his own experience with obesity and how switching to a healthier diet helped him achieve success.
“When I started training, I was fat. I started eating healthy food, which improved my health. It helped me a lot after I became a professional athlete. I urge all parents to encourage their children to play outdoor games and reduce oily foods,” Chopra said.
Similarly, boxer Nikhat Zareen stressed the importance of a healthy diet, stating:
“It’s a national concern, and everyone should take their health seriously because obesity is spreading rapidly in our country. If I don’t follow a healthy diet, it affects my performance, and I get tired quickly.”
Government and Public Health Initiatives
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan applauded PM Modi’s health campaign, calling it a crucial step in tackling obesity and raising public awareness.
“I thank Prime Minister Modi for highlighting key issues, including India’s role in emerging technologies like AI and the need for public awareness on obesity. He inspired people to reduce oil consumption by 10% and spread awareness among 10 others.”
PM Modi also used his Mann Ki Baat address to promote other public health initiatives, including the goal of making India Tuberculosis (TB)-free by 2025. He encouraged citizens to participate in the Nikshay Mitra program, which supports TB patients in their fight against the disease.
With growing concerns over obesity and lifestyle diseases, PM Modi’s campaign aims to drive a national conversation on fitness, nutrition, and preventive healthcare.