Unhealthy eating habits, increased consumption of highly processed foods, refined sugars, and greasy fast food are major factors in rising obesity rates. The fast-food trend in Indian cities has particularly affected the urban middle-class population, resulting in increased obesity levels. High prices of protein, dairy, and fruits cause many low-income families to turn to cheap, high-carbohydrate diets such as rice and wheat. The Public Distribution System (PDS) supplies mainly staple cereals, which lack nutrient-rich foods essential for a balanced diet. Sedentary office jobs, along with digital entertainment and long working hours, leave little time for physical activity, leading to weight gain.
India has seen an alarming rise in obesity, with reports indicating that 24% of men and 25% of women are now overweight or obese. Worryingly, obesity among children aged 5-9 years has doubled in the last decade. Factors such as urbanization, dietary changes, sedentary habits, and environmental influences are fueling this trend. A comprehensive approach is needed to tackle this issue. The percentage of overweight and obese women increased from 20.6% to 24%, while for men it has increased from 18.9% to 22.9%.
Moreover, obesity rates among children under 5 years of age have increased from 2.1% to 3.4%, and the trend is even worse among older children. The World Obesity Atlas 2022 estimates that by 2030, 10.81% of children aged 5-9 years and 6.23% of children aged 10-19 years will be obese. A study by The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia shows that about 40% of women and 12% of men in India suffer from abdominal obesity. Genetic factors contribute to the tendency to accumulate fat in the abdominal region, increasing the risk of metabolic disorders. While obesity is primarily an urban problem, it is increasingly affecting the rural population due to changes in lifestyle and dietary habits. Currently, 60% of deaths in India are caused by non-communicable diseases, which are further aggravated by obesity and an inactive lifestyle.
Unhealthy eating habits, increased consumption of highly processed foods, refined sugars, and greasy fast food are major factors in the rising rates of obesity. The fast-food trend in Indian cities has particularly affected the urban middle-class population, resulting in increased obesity levels. High prices of protein, dairy, and fruits cause many low-income families to turn to cheap, high-carbohydrate diets such as rice and wheat. The Public Distribution System (PDS) supplies mainly staple cereals, which lack nutrient-rich foods essential for a balanced diet. Sedentary office jobs, along with digital entertainment and long working hours, leave little time for physical activity, leading to weight gain.
According to a study by Lancet Global Health, 50% of Indians do not do enough physical activity, which is a significant factor in the obesity epidemic. Lack of awareness about nutrition and exercise leads to poor lifestyle choices, especially in the lower-income groups and rural areas. Many Indian families mistakenly assume being overweight is a sign of good health, thereby delaying necessary interventions for obesity. Aggressive marketing of processed foods, sugary beverages, and fast food greatly influences dietary choices, especially among children. Social media promotions and celebrity endorsements further promote junk food consumption among youth. The expansion of urban areas, along with the prevalence of digital entertainment and remote working, has led to a decline in overall physical activity levels. Traffic congestion and pollution prevent outdoor exercise, leading to a greater reliance on sedentary indoor activities.
Lack of parks, playgrounds, and pedestrian-friendly areas makes it difficult to engage in physical activities such as walking and cycling. Poor urban planning and lack of cycling infrastructure complicate active commuting, leading to higher obesity rates. Additionally, pollution-related inflammation increases the risk of metabolic disorders, which can lead to weight gain. Research has shown a link between high pollution levels in Indian cities the accumulation of visceral fat and an increase in obesity. The uncontrolled expansion of fast-food chains and processed food markets, especially in urban centers, has led to unhealthy options becoming more accessible than fresh produce.
Addressing obesity is an urgent priority. We should consider imposing higher taxes on sugary beverages and ultra-processed foods while providing subsidies for healthier food choices. For example, Mexico’s sugar tax resulted in a 12% reduction in soft drink consumption, indicating its effectiveness in tackling obesity. Additionally, it is essential to introduce mandatory physical education and nutrition education programs in schools and workplaces. Japan’s ‘Shokuiku’ initiative has successfully reduced childhood obesity rates by emphasizing a balanced diet. Creating pedestrian-friendly streets, cycle paths, and safe public parks can encourage daily physical activity. The Netherlands’ urban cycling approach has shown a reduction in obesity rates through active commuting. Clear food labeling on packaged goods is also important to help consumers make informed dietary decisions. Chile’s front-of-pack warning labels on high-sugar and high-fat foods have successfully reduced junk food consumption among children.
National campaigns promoting balanced diets, regular exercise, and reduced sugar intake are important to changing consumer behavior. Initiatives such as the Fit India Movement and Eat Right India Abhiyaan aim to promote healthy lifestyle choices among the population. A healthy nation is indeed a prosperous nation. To effectively tackle obesity, we need a comprehensive strategy that strengthens public health policies, encourages nutritious eating, integrates physical education, and ensures that urban planning supports active living. Expanding initiatives such as the Poshan Abhiyaan and Eat Right India with community-driven, technology-enabled solutions will lead to lasting change.
