Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 24: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited ten eminent personalities to join the national movement against obesity, urging them to promote awareness on healthy food habits in line with his Fit India initiative.

Among the nominated figures are Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, industrialist Anand Mahindra, actor-turned-politician Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua), Olympic stars Manu Bhaker and Mirabai Chanu, actors Mohanlal and R Madhavan, singer Shreya Ghoshal, philanthropist and Rajya Sabha MP Sudha Murthy, and Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani.

Taking to social media platform X, PM Modi stated, “As mentioned in yesterday’s Mann Ki Baat, 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 ten people each so that our movement gets bigger! Collectively, let us make India fitter and healthier.”

During his monthly ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, the Prime Minister praised India’s sporting achievements and shed light on rising obesity levels in the country. Referring to discussions at the National Games’ opening ceremony in Dehradun, he highlighted the alarming increase in obesity cases, especially among children.

Citing WHO data, Modi warned that one in eight Indians is affected by obesity, with cases having doubled in recent years, and childhood obesity increasing fourfold. He stressed that excess weight leads to serious health risks, including heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension, but assured that small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.

To further the campaign, the Prime Minister also invited Olympic gold medalist Neeraj Chopra, boxing champion Nikhat Zareen, and noted cardiologist Dr Devi Shetty to share their insights on tackling obesity.

Encouraging people to embrace healthier food habits, Modi underscored the need to reduce excessive oil consumption and emphasized that dietary changes are not just personal choices but a responsibility towards family and society.

“Using less oil and dealing with obesity is not just a personal choice but our duty towards loved ones. Excess oil consumption can trigger several diseases like heart ailments, diabetes, and hypertension,” he stated.

He urged citizens to take immediate steps towards a healthier lifestyle, concluding, “By making small yet meaningful changes in our food habits, we can build a fitter, stronger, and disease-free future. Let’s work together in a fun and effective way to achieve this goal.”