Tackling the Silent Crisis: A Call to Address Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in India

January 05, 2024

Dear Shri Rahul V. Karad Ji,

I extend my sincere appreciation for graciously sharing the comprehensive report of the National Legislators' Conference 2023. The efforts of the MIT School of Government in creating a forum for constructive dialogue and collaboration deserve commendation.

The report, a testament to the commitment of the participants, encapsulates the diverse discussions and recommendations that unfolded during the conference. I am deeply impressed by the collective wisdom shared to address the multifaceted challenges faced by our nation.

Your acknowledgment of our support is genuinely appreciated, and I want to assure you of our unwavering commitment to the altruistic mission of the National Legislators' Conference. I eagerly anticipate engaging in further discussions and extending any assistance aligned with the noble objectives of this significant event.

Turning to a matter of pressing concern—the rising prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), especially among the youth—I share a deep concern. The insights provided by NFHS-5 into the role of unhealthy dietary habits in contributing to the NCD epidemic are invaluable. Addressing this issue necessitates a collaborative effort, and I am resolutely committed to supporting initiatives that promote the well-being of our nation, Bharat.

The data you presented on childhood obesity and the efforts of FSSAI underscore the urgent need for transformative action. I wholeheartedly acknowledge the importance of scientific evidence-based warning label front-of-pack labeling regulations to empower consumers and encourage healthier food choices. The supportive studies from esteemed institutions like AIIMS, the National Institute of Nutrition, and the International Institute of Population Science further highlight the gravity of the situation.

India finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with the complexities of childhood obesity, affecting nearly 15 million children and ranking as the second-highest in childhood obesity rates globally, following China. The surge in ultra-processed packaged food consumption, laden with salt, sugar, and saturated fats, has become a major health concern.

Recent data from the National Family Health Survey 2019-21 reveals a 60% surge in childhood obesity over the past five years. Additionally, adults aged 15 to 49 face a prevalent concern of obesity, affecting around 25% of both men and women. The survey also highlights a disturbing prevalence of diabetes and hypertension among youths, underscoring the urgency for transformative action.

The persistent efforts of FSSAI to formulate a scientific evidence-based front-of-pack labeling regulation for processed and ultra-processed packaged food products are commendable. This regulation aims to help consumers identify unhealthy food products and encourage food manufacturers to produce and market healthier alternatives. The inclusion of a label that explicitly warns consumers of the health risks due to the high presence of saturated fats, trans-fat, salt, and sugar is crucial.

However, the success of these efforts hinges on strong political support. I implore you to champion this cause to ensure the health and well-being of our children and youths are protected and secured. The commendable support from institutions of national excellence, including AIIMS, the National Institute of Nutrition, and the International Institute of Population Science, emphasizes the urgency of adopting global best practices to protect the nutritional well-being of our citizens.

In light of this, I express my wholehearted support for the advocacy of scientific evidence-based warning label FOPL regulations for unregulated packaged foods, with a specific focus on the health rights of children, youth, and mothers. I am dedicated to actively working towards promoting this cause and endeavor to include it in the election manifesto of various political parties for the upcoming parliamentary election.

I urge you to mobilize your contacts and make a fervent appeal for the inclusion of a warning label Front of Package label (FOPL) for unregulated packaged foods to curb deaths due to NCDs. Shockingly, 60% of deaths in Bharat are happening due to NCDs according to NFHS-5 (National Family Health Survey).

For a more in-depth understanding of this critical issue, I invite you to read my article on the subject: Link to Article 1 Link to Article 2

Thank you for bringing this significant initiative to my attention, and I deeply appreciate your ongoing commitment to the welfare of our nation. Together, I am confident that we can make a substantial impact on the health and well-being of our citizens.

Yours sincerely,

Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi