Anand Mahindra, Omar Abdullah among 10 celebs nominated by PM Modi to combat obesity; 5 things to know about the drive

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday nominated 10 personalities, including Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and businessman Anand Mahindra, to lead his latest initiative to combat obesity in the country. While addressing the 119th Episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi addressed the growing problem of obesity in India, especially among children. He also urged citizens to make small but significant changes in their daily diets.

Taking to X, the prime minister wrote, “I would like to nominate the following people to help strengthen the fight against obesity and spread awareness on reducing edible oil consumption in food. I also request them to nominate 10 people each so that our movement gets bigger.”

Who are the 10 people nominated by PM Modi?

The prime minister has nominated Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra, Bhojpuri singer-actor Nirahua, shooting champion Manu Bhaker, weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani, Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah, actor R Madhavan, singer Shreya Ghoshal, actor Mohanlal and author-politician Sudha Murty.

5 things to know about PM Modi's campaign to tackle obesity

1. The prime minister, in his post, tagged several influential figures and asked them to take up the challenge and nominate 10 more people each.

2. During the 119th episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi highlighted that obesity cases have doubled in the last few years, and the more concerning aspect has been the rise in obesity cases among children.

3. He also advised people to buy 10 per cent less cooking oil and subsequently reduce its consumption.

4. He added that by making small changes in eating habits, one can lead to a stronger, fitter and disease-free future.

5. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he is happy to join the campaign, as obesity causes a number of lifestyle-related health issues like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, strokes & breathing problems not to mention mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. The chief minister further nominated 10 people to join the PM's campaign. Among those nominated by Abdullah were Biocon Managing Director Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, businessman Sajjan Jindal, actor Deepika Padukone, former tennis player Sania Mirza, former cricketer Irfan Pathan, MP Supriya Sule and former Wushu player Kuldeep Handoo.

(With inputs from agencies)