Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his February 23 Mann Ki Baat address, highlighted the alarming rise of obesity in India. Referring to World Health Organization (WHO) data, he stated that around 250 crore people worldwide were overweight in 2022. He stressed that obesity is not just a health issue but a growing epidemic that needs immediate attention.
“These statistics are very serious and force all of us to think about why this is happening. Excess weight or obesity leads to many health problems and diseases,” PM Modi said.
Obesity Awareness: A National Responsibility
PM Modi emphasized that reducing obesity is not just a lifestyle change but a responsibility towards one’s family and society. He advised citizens to adopt healthier eating habits, including reducing oil consumption, and urged collective efforts to promote fitness.
To spearhead this movement, he nominated 10 distinguished individuals from various fields to spread awareness. He also encouraged them to nominate 10 more people each, ensuring the message reaches a wider audience.
10 Prominent Figures Leading the Campaign
PM Modi selected the following personalities to take forward the fight against obesity:
- Anand Mahindra – Chairman, Mahindra Group
- Sudha Murty – Infosys Foundation Chairperson, Author, and Rajya Sabha MP
- Nandan Nilekani – Co-founder, Infosys
- Mirabai Chanu – Olympic-winning Weightlifter
- R. Madhavan – Actor
- Manu Bhaker – Olympic-winning Shooter
- Nirahua Hindustani – Actor and BJP MP
- Omar Abdullah – Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister
- Mohanlal – Actor & Producer
- Shreya Ghoshal – Singer
PM Modi shared this initiative on X (formerly Twitter), urging his nominees to carry forward the campaign.
India’s Rising Obesity Problem
PM Modi also pointed out that one in every eight Indians is obese, and the problem has grown significantly among children.
“To become a fit and healthy nation, we must tackle obesity. Cases have doubled in recent years, but what is even more concerning is that childhood obesity has increased fourfold,” he said.
Supporting his message, Olympian Neeraj Chopra and boxing champion Nikhat Zareen joined the campaign, encouraging Indians to focus on fitness.
India Among the Most Affected Nations
A Lancet study revealed that 70% of India’s urban and rural population is categorized as overweight or obese. This places India among the top three most affected nations, behind only the US and China.
With rising health risks and lifestyle disorders linked to obesity, PM Modi’s initiative aims to create national awareness and encourage healthier living habits across the country.
