Obesity surge: 30.7% of Indian women now overweight or obese

Why in news

NFHS-6 data reveals a significant rise in obesity rates among Indian women, prompting a shift toward pre-conception care and Ayurvedic interventions.

Background

The NFHS-6 data (2023-24) shows 30.7% of Indian women (aged 15-49) are overweight or obese, up from 24% five years ago. The SDM College of Ayurveda in Udupi is implementing programs based on 'garbhadana samskara' for pre-conception health.

Facts for Prelims

• Report / IndexNFHS-6: National Family Health Survey data released in 2023-24
• FactObesity rate in Indian women (15-49) rose from 24% to 30.7% in five years
• S&TGarbhadana Samskara: An Ayurvedic practice focusing on pre-conception health and lifestyle

For Mains

Q. Discuss the rising trend of obesity in India and evaluate the role of traditional medicine and lifestyle interventions in addressing public health challenges.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• nutritional transition
• impact on reproductive health
• integration of AYUSH in primary healthcare

Keywords: nutritional transition · pre-conception care · public health · lifestyle intervention · AYUSH

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