In his recent ‘Mann Ki Baat’ broadcast, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the urgent need to combat obesity in India. He highlighted the rising prevalence of obesity, particularly among children, and its association with increased risks of cardiovascular diseases and other health issues. To spearhead this initiative, PM Modi has nominated ten prominent individuals from various sectors to lead a nationwide campaign promoting healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices.
In the 119th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’ aired on February 23, 2025, Prime Minister Modi addressed the escalating concern of obesity in the country. He noted that obesity has become a significant health challenge, with a notable increase among children. PM Modi stressed the importance of educating the public about the adverse effects of excessive oil consumption and unhealthy dietary practices. He urged citizens to adopt healthier eating habits and reduce their intake of edible oils to mitigate the risk of obesity-related ailments.
To amplify this message, PM Modi has nominated a diverse group of influential figures to champion the cause. The list includes Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, industrialist Anand Mahindra, actors R. Madhavan, Dinesh Lal Yadav Nirahua, and Mohanlal, sport shooter Manu Bhaker, weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, singer Shreya Ghoshal, and Rajya Sabha member Sudha Murty. These individuals are tasked with raising awareness about the dangers of unhealthy eating and promoting a culture of fitness and well-being.
In a social media post, PM Modi stated, “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. I also request them to nominate 10 people each so that our movement gets bigger!” This cascading nomination process aims to create a widespread network of advocates, ensuring the message reaches every corner of the nation.
The nominated personalities have expressed their commitment to the cause. Omar Abdullah, in his response, highlighted the health issues associated with obesity, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, strokes, and respiratory problems, as well as mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. He emphasized the importance of regular exercise and mindful eating habits in combating these challenges.
Nandan Nilekani underscored the dual benefits of the campaign, noting that reducing edible oil consumption not only improves individual health but also contributes to the nation’s economic strength by decreasing dependence on imports. He shared his personal commitment to incorporating daily exercise and a balanced diet to keep obesity and related issues at bay.
The Prime Minister’s initiative has garnered support from various sectors, including the medical community. Healthcare professionals have lauded the campaign, emphasizing the critical need to address obesity to prevent a spectrum of health complications. They advocate for a holistic approach that combines dietary modifications with regular physical activity to achieve sustainable health outcomes.
This nationwide campaign aligns with the government’s broader health objectives, focusing on preventive measures to curb lifestyle-related diseases. By involving eminent personalities and encouraging community participation, the initiative aims to foster a culture of health consciousness and proactive wellness among citizens.
In conclusion, PM Modi’s call to action against obesity marks a significant step towards addressing a pressing public health issue. Through collaborative efforts and widespread awareness, this campaign aspires to inspire lasting changes in dietary habits and lifestyle choices, paving the way for a healthier and more prosperous India.
