India is facing an escalating obesity crisis, and health experts are urging the government to take stronger action. Luke Coutinho, a well-known holistic health coach, recently expressed his support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative to combat obesity. During a visit to an Anganwadi Centre in New Delhi, Coutinho emphasised the need for stricter regulations on junk food and increased awareness about its impact on health. He also revealed being asked to design the ‘Bharat dish and lifestyle plan’ at the NXT Conclave.
During the 119th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, PM Modi addressed the pressing issue of obesity, highlighting its link to serious diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. According to a recent study, one in every eight individuals struggles with obesity, and alarming data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that 2.5 billion people worldwide were classified as overweight in 2022.
Modi warned that obesity rates have doubled in recent years, with an even more concerning fourfold increase among children. He stressed the urgency of tackling this issue through both policy changes and individual responsibility.
The role of junk food regulation and nutrition awareness
Coutinho echoed the PM’s concerns, stating, “Regulating junk food consumption is critical. We need structured awareness campaigns to educate both children and adults about the dangers of processed food.” He emphasised the importance of nutrition education from an early age, suggesting that information should be made available in multiple regional languages to ensure widespread understanding.
Encouraging traditional and local superfoods
One of the key solutions proposed is a shift towards local superfoods, a concept strongly advocated by Modi. Coutinho highlighted the benefits of incorporating traditional, nutrient-rich foods such as millets, which are naturally balanced in macronutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.
“Modi has encouraged us to embrace locally grown superfoods, which provide essential nutrients while reducing dependency on highly processed foods,” he stated.
To address dietary habits contributing to obesity, Modi recommended reducing edible oil consumption by 10% as a small but impactful step towards a healthier lifestyle. He also reinforced the importance of Ghar-ka-khana (home-cooked food), stating that it should be promoted as a staple for Indian families.
Coutinho supported this approach, stating, “We need more mindfulness in our eating habits. Promoting home-cooked meals will significantly reduce the reliance on processed and fast foods.”
Later on March 1, he shared glimses of him at the NXT Conclave where Luke met PM Modi and discussed their plans to help Inida fight obesity. “We look forward to the release of the “Bharat dish and lifestyle plan“ in honour of our honourable PM Modi, soon reaching all households and schools to embrace this creation proudly and to teach people how to incorporate inspiring parts of our honourable PM’s nutrition choices, superfoods, and holistic lifestyle,” Luke’s X post read.
A call for collective action
Both Modi and Coutinho emphasised that fighting obesity is not just a government initiative but a shared responsibility of every citizen. The PM urged people to make conscious food choices, engage in regular exercise, and prioritise mental and emotional well-being.
As India works towards a healthier future, the combined efforts of policymakers, health experts, and individuals will play a crucial role in reversing the rising obesity trend. Implementing stricter junk food regulations, improving nutrition education, and encouraging healthier eating habits can help India overcome this public health challenge.
