PM Modi Rallies Celebrities to Lead Fight Against Obesity
In a bold move to combat rising obesity rates in India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited ten prominent personalities to join a national movement promoting healthier lifestyles and reducing excessive oil consumption. This initiative aligns with the ongoing Fit India campaign, reinforcing the importance of fitness and well-being across the country.
Among those nominated by PM Modi are Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, business magnate Anand Mahindra, actor-turned-politician Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua), Olympic medalists Manu Bhaker and Mirabai Chanu, actors Mohanlal and R. Madhavan, singer Shreya Ghoshal, philanthropist and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murthy, and Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.
Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi expressed his hope that these personalities would inspire broader participation: "As mentioned in yesterday's Mann Ki Baat, 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 ten people each so that our movement gets bigger! Collectively, let us make India fitter and healthier".
On his monthly radio show, 'Mann Ki Baat,' the Prime Minister spoke about India's growing obesity epidemic. The Prime Minister quoted World Health Organization statistics showing that an eighth of Indians are obese, with incidents doubling in the last few years. Even more concerning, obesity among children has increased fourfold, which is a public health crisis.
PM Modi linked obesity to severe health risks like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension but offered hope, emphasizing that small lifestyle adjustments can make a significant impact. He underscored the need to curb excessive oil consumption, advocating for mindful eating as a shared societal responsibility.
"Using less oil in food and dealing with obesity is not just a personal choice but also our responsibility towards the family. Excessive use of oil in food can cause many diseases," he noted, encouraging citizens to adopt sustainable, health-conscious habits.
To deepen public understanding, the Prime Minister invited Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, boxer Nikhat Zareen, and renowned cardiologist Dr. Devi Shetty to share practical insights on managing obesity in future editions of 'Mann Ki Baat.'
This chain-nomination mechanism will seek to raise awareness, building a mass movement for improved health. By energizing influencers from the sports, entertainment, business, and public service sectors, PM Modi pictures a collective effort to redefine India's food terrain and create healthier futures.
"By making small changes in our food habits, we can make our future stronger, fitter, and disease-free", he concluded, urging the nation to act together without further delay.
With a growing coalition of influential voices, the movement against obesity is set to gain momentum, carrying forward the Prime Minister’s vision of a healthier, more vibrant India.
