India’s obesity crisis is deepening, with women in South Indian states, Delhi, and Punjab showing higher prevalence rates. Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) reveals that about a quarter of men and women in the country were classified as overweight or obese in 2019-21, marking a four-percentage-point increase from the 2015-16 survey.
Sharp Rise in Obesity Rates
The statistics paint a concerning picture. While obesity has long been a public health issue, the pace at which it is rising, especially among men, is alarming. Between 2015-16 and 2019-21, obesity among men increased at a faster rate than among women. However, women in South India, Delhi, and Punjab remain the most affected demographic.
The declining percentage of people categorized as ‘thin’ is also striking. In 2015-16, a significant portion of the population fell into this category, but by 2019-21, that number had reduced to less than a fifth. This suggests a rapid nutritional transition, where undernutrition is being replaced by overnutrition, bringing its own set of health risks.
What’s Fueling the Trend?
Experts link the surge in obesity to a combination of lifestyle and dietary choices. The widespread consumption of fried foods, processed meals, and sugary, aerated drinks is one of the primary culprits. Urbanization and economic growth have also led to more sedentary lifestyles, reducing physical activity levels among both men and women.
- Increased intake of fast food and sugary beverages
- Sedentary jobs with minimal physical exertion
- Cultural food habits in specific regions emphasizing oil-rich and carbohydrate-heavy diets
- Declining levels of physical activity due to urbanization and technology dependence
According to nutritionists, dietary patterns have shifted dramatically in the last two decades, with calorie-dense foods replacing traditional home-cooked meals.
Government and Public Health Responses
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently addressed the issue in his monthly radio program, Mann Ki Baat, cautioning against rising obesity rates, especially among children. He advised reducing oil consumption by 10% each month to maintain a healthier lifestyle. While the recommendation may seem simple, health professionals believe sustained policy interventions are needed to combat obesity effectively.
State governments have launched several initiatives to address the problem. In Kerala, the Eat Right Kerala campaign promotes balanced diets and exercise awareness. Similarly, Tamil Nadu has introduced school-based programs encouraging healthier food habits among children. However, experts argue that these efforts need to be scaled up significantly to counter the growing trend.
How Does India Compare Globally?
The rising obesity levels in India reflect a global trend. Countries like the United States and the United Kingdom have long battled obesity-related health challenges, but India is now seeing a similar shift.
| Country | Adult Obesity Rate (%) |
|---|---|
| USA | 42.4 |
| UK | 28.0 |
| India (Men) | ~23.0 |
| India (Women) | ~24.0 |
While India’s obesity rate is still lower than that of Western nations, the pace of increase is a cause for concern. The shift from malnutrition to overnutrition in a short period suggests that public health policies need urgent revision.
The Health Risks Ahead
Obesity is not just about weight gain; it brings severe health consequences. Doctors warn that the rising prevalence of obesity will likely lead to an increase in lifestyle diseases such as:
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Joint and mobility issues
- Mental health disorders linked to body image concerns
Given these risks, healthcare experts stress the importance of early interventions, including regular health screenings, improved dietary education, and community-level programs encouraging physical activity.
