Nutrition Sustainable Development Goals in India: The Concern of Rising Obesity

Abstract

India is facing growing challenge in achieving its nutrition targets under Sustainable Development Goal 2 as it grapples with a triple burden of malnutrition - persistent undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and a rapidly rising prevalence of overweight and obesity. NFHS-5 (2019–21) data shows that 24% of women, 23% of men and 3.4% of children under five are overweight or obese. According to WHO, the recent studies suggest that the incidence of overweight and obesity in both adults and children continue to be escalating. Traditionally, obesity has been more common in countries with high income, but India’s current rising rate is consistent with global pattern. Globally, the proportion of children and adolescents aged 5 to 19 who are obese soared from 7% to 16% between 1990 and 2022, while the proportion of adults aged 18 and over who are obese escalated from 2% to 8%. Projections suggest that India could be among the countries with the largest number of people living with obesity by 2050, thereby, significantly increasing the risk of chronic non-communicable diseases.  Obesity contributes to illness, disability and premature death and thus, accounting for a substantial portion of the overall disease burden, thus becoming a major public health issue.  Realising the urgency of this emerging public health crisis, the present study examines the key drivers of the rising obesity including urbanisation, dietary changes, physical inactivity and the rising influence of digital platforms like food delivery apps that promote frequent access to high-calorie foods. Despite the launch of key initiatives such as Poshan Abhiyaan, Fit India, Eat Right India, problem of overnutrition remains poorly addressed. The paper recommends a multi-sectoral approach to reduce the risk of rising obesity, that includes stronger regulations, sugar taxes, food labelling, improved urban planning and public awareness, women-centred health initiatives Equally important is to promote traditional food systems and engage citizens as informed consumers by enhancing consumer knowledge and awareness about food products. Thus, a proactive and integrated approach is vital to protect India’s demographic dividend, reduce non-communicable disease burden, and achieve sustainable nutrition outcomes.