Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday (February 17) launched a nationwide campaign aimed at combating obesity by encouraging Indians to cut down their edible oil consumption by 10%. The initiative, which has garnered support from industrialists, politicians, sportspersons, and celebrities, follows alarming global statistics on rising obesity rates.

Citing research, Modi highlighted that one in eight people worldwide now lives with obesity, with cases doubling in recent years and childhood obesity surging fourfold. He emphasized the urgent need for lifestyle changes to build a healthier India. As part of the campaign, the Prime Minister nominated 10 prominent individuals across various fields to spread awareness and further the movement. Among them are industrialists Anand Mahindra and Nandan Nilekani, sportspersons Manu Bhaker and Mirabai Chanu, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Member of Parliament Mohanlal, philanthropist Sudha Murthy, BJP leader Dinesh Lal Yadav, actor R. Madhavan, and singer Shreya Ghoshal.

PM Modi urged his nominees to pass on the challenge to 10 more people each, ensuring the campaign reaches every corner of the country.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Modi posted: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 #FightObesity” The movement is expected to gain nationwide traction, with mass participation driven by public figures and social media outreach.

Experts believe that collective efforts toward healthier eating habits can significantly curb the rising obesity crisis in India.