-KH News Desk (cbedit@imaws.org )
On the occasion of World Food Safety Day 2025, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Jagat Prakash Nadda, delivered the keynote address at a special event themed “Stop Obesity by Eating Safe and Healthy”, held at the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro-Sciences (NIMHANS) in Bengaluru. The event was organized by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. It emphasized the crucial role of food safety and nutrition in combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity.
The programme was attended by key dignitaries, including Dr. Sharanprakash R Patil, Karnataka’s Minister of Medical Education and Skill Development, Members of Parliament Lahar Singh Siroya and P C Mohan, Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, and other senior government officials.
In his speech, Minister Nadda echoed the Prime Minister’s vision of prioritizing wellness and tackling obesity. He stressed the need for greater awareness about the health risks associated with unhealthy diets and called for a shift toward balanced, nutritious food. Nadda noted that a healthy India is vital for a developed India (Viksit Bharat) and this can only be achieved through better food choices and healthy lifestyles.
Citing findings from the ICMR–India Diabetes (INDIAB) study, he expressed concern over the growing obesity trend—urban India saw a 39.6% increase in obesity from 2008 to 2020, while rural areas reported a 23.1% rise. Another study predicts that by 2050, one-third of India’s population may be obese.
To counter this, Nadda urged stakeholders to support the Prime Minister’s appeal by reducing oil usage by 10% and cutting salt intake through improved food awareness. He praised FSSAI’s behavioral change initiative—Sugar and Oil Boards—implemented in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. These visual tools help raise awareness about hidden sugars and fats in everyday foods and encourage healthier choices. Nadda suggested including calorie information in these boards and integrating food safety awareness into school curriculums.
The Minister also advocated for a return to traditional Indian foods, particularly millets, to promote better health and food habits. He emphasized that food safety and healthy eating should become a way of life and a mass movement.
Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, in her address, underscored the importance of early education and cross-sector collaboration to create a culture of food safety and healthy living. She emphasized using science and surveillance systems to ensure food safety and encouraged stakeholders to stay informed and cautious about food additives.
She added that eliminating non-communicable diseases in India hinges on healthy diets, reduced oil consumption, and a united effort to promote better food choices. “Eating healthy is not just a personal responsibility but a national one,” she said.
Sanjay Kumar, Secretary, Department of School Education and Literacy, also spoke on the importance of instilling healthy food habits in children. He highlighted initiatives like including Shri Anna (millets) in school meals and promoting physical education to support cognitive health and overall well-being. He emphasized that community involvement is essential for ensuring long-term dietary change.
