Pune, Nov 17 (IANS): Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday launched a new initiative against childhood obesity here, which will directly benefit over 6,000 children in Pune alone by making them aware about their Body Mass Index (BMI).

As per the initiative, a BMI dialler will be given to the schools through which children will be able to know their BMI.

India is the diabetes capital of the world and by 2025 is expected to be the second-largest country with childhood obesity, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The initiative was taken by Rotary Club of Koregaon Park with JT Foundation.

As part of the initiative, a documentary has also been prepared to create awareness in the schools with the help of JT Foundation. The documentary will be showcased in more than 6,000 schools within Pune district.

With the help of a BMI dialler, school children, parents and teachers will also be sensitised about childhood obesity by the volunteers of the Rotary Club across Pune district.

"Fewer children these days are found in the playgrounds, moreover all comforts are provided to these children easily. This is one of the major causes for rampant rise in childhood obesity.

"This campaign will ensure that childhood obesity will not hamper the growth or development of our future generations. This is a positive movement and the government will ensure support to spread this across Maharashtra," said Fadnavis.

Jayshree Todkar, Director, Dr Todkar's Clinic, and JT Foundation, Pune said it was essential to identify the high-risk population and get to provide further treatment.

"We aim to take this fight against childhood obesity to the next level. Pune tops the first five cities of India in obesity, so it is the most appropriate place to launch the campaign," said Todkar.