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New Delhi, February 11, 2025 – Amid rising concerns over unhealthy eating habits and the surge in diseases like diabetes and hypertension in India, public health experts emphasize the crucial role of government initiatives such as POSHAN Abhiyaan and FSSAI’s Eat Right School in educating children about balanced diets and sustainable eating practices.
The increasing consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPF) – high in sugar, salt, and unsaturated fats while lacking essential nutrients – has become a major health concern. The recently released Economic Survey 2024-25 highlights the link between UPF consumption and multiple chronic conditions, including mental health issues.
Experts stress that parents, schools, and communities play a pivotal role in instilling healthy eating habits in children. This, they argue, will not only foster a healthier generation but also alleviate economic burdens and boost productivity.
“India’s POSHAN Abhiyaan provides a structured approach to involve schools, parents, and communities in shaping children’s nutritional habits,” said Dr. Anuja Agarwala, former nutritionist at AIIMS, New Delhi, and Vice President of the Indian Diabetic Association.
She emphasized the importance of programmes like FSSAI’s Eat Right School initiative, which engages students through interactive sessions and activities to instill the importance of balanced diets and sustainable eating practices. The initiative also encourages parental involvement through workshops and educational resources.
Launched in March 2018, POSHAN Abhiyaan (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme For Holistic Nourishment) is a flagship government programme aimed at improving nutritional outcomes for children under six years, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers. Meanwhile, FSSAI’s Eat Right School initiative promotes awareness about food safety, nutrition, and hygiene among school children, extending its impact to the wider community.
Experts underscore the significance of collaboration between parents and schools to sustain nutrition education. According to Agarwala, involving parents in food education through nutrition awareness workshops and cooking demonstrations can lead to more effective implementation of healthy eating habits.
“These initiatives encourage parents to actively engage with teachers and school nutritionists, ensuring that children not only receive nutritious school meals but also develop healthy eating practices at home. A consistent approach to nutrition education will significantly support children’s growth and well-being,” she added.
Parents, as primary role models, can reinforce good habits by promoting hygiene, teaching children to wash hands before meals, avoiding food wastage, and maintaining cleanliness.
“When parents, schools, and communities collaborate, children not only learn about the importance of healthy eating but also adopt hygienic practices, develop values of inclusivity, and appreciate the significance of nutritious meals,” Agarwala stated.
Dr. Jamuna Prakash, a food consultant and former professor at the University of Mysore’s Department of Food Science and Nutrition, advocates for integrating nutrition education into school curricula.
“Nutrition should be an essential part of the school curriculum as it equips children with knowledge to make informed food choices. It also fosters lifelong health and helps prevent malnutrition, obesity, and micronutrient deficiencies,” she explained.
Dr. Prakash highlighted Japan’s Shokuiku (food education) programme as a model, where students learn about balanced diets, food origins, and healthy eating through community participation. This initiative involves local farmers and food producers while encouraging student engagement in meal preparation and food education.
“Incorporating similar methods in India’s schools can educate students on the importance of balanced nutrition, the risks of processed foods, and strategies to address dietary deficiencies,” Prakash suggested.
She also recommended activities such as school gardens and cooking classes to make nutrition education more engaging. Such initiatives, she said, would lay a strong foundation for children, empowering them to embrace healthy lifestyles and influence their families and communities positively.
Additionally, Agarwala emphasized the importance of early childhood nutrition, advocating for the involvement of nutritionists in maternal care, breastfeeding, and early feeding practices—key targets of POSHAN Abhiyaan.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Readers are advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary changes.
