Nutrition Paradox in India
India is currently dealing with a nutrition paradox in which obesity and undernutrition, especially in adolescents, coexist. There is increasing public focus on growing obesity, highlighted by initiatives such as the seventh edition of Poshan Pakhwada, which emphasized childhood and adolescent obesity. The ‘Let’s Fix Our Food’ consortium has advocated for better food environments for adolescents.
Policy and Regulatory Measures
- The Supreme Court has mandated the Central government to finalize and enforce transparent food labeling regulations within three months.
- The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development and NCERT have issued guidelines for monitoring sugar and salt in foods provided to children and adolescents in schools.
Current Challenges
- Adolescents are facing an epidemic of obesity and diet-related non-communicable diseases due to the aggressive marketing and availability of ultra-processed foods.
- India experiences one of the steepest annual increases in childhood obesity globally, as per the World Obesity Atlas 2024.
- Over 5% of adolescents in India, and 10-15% in certain states, are overweight or obese.
Impact of Poor Nutrition
- Poor nutrition is linked to decreased concentration, lower academic performance, and higher absenteeism, severely limiting students' potential.
Strategies for Improvement
To resolve these challenges, a two-pronged approach is suggested:
- Regulatory Policies: Implement health taxes on high-fat, salty, and sugary foods; subsidize nutrient-rich foods; and introduce front-of-pack nutrition labels.
- Youth Engagement: Educate and empower youth to make informed food choices and engage in physical activities.
Role of Schools and Education
- Schools should integrate nutrition education, helping students differentiate between healthy and unhealthy foods.
- Promote food literacy as an essential life skill to enable adolescents to make informed dietary choices.
Need for Inter-Ministerial Coordination
- Nutrition is governed by multiple ministries, including Health, Agriculture, and Education, necessitating coordinated efforts for effective outcomes.
- Initiatives like Poshan Abhiyaan provide a framework for collaborative action across sectors.
In conclusion, achieving a healthier India requires more than awareness — it demands actionable policies, healthy environments, and coordinated efforts across different sectors.
