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The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has launched a significant initiative aimed at tackling the growing concern of student obesity and promoting healthier lifestyles among its affiliated schools. This move, characterized by the introduction of “Oil Boards,” is designed to serve as a visual reminder to students about the dangers of excessive consumption of unhealthy fats and oils. The directive, issued in a circular dated July 15, 2025, builds upon the foundation laid by the earlier “Sugar Boards” initiative, demonstrating CBSE’s commitment to preventive health through awareness and behavioral change within the student population. The initiative stems from a deep-seated concern regarding the escalating rates of obesity in India, particularly among children and adolescents. According to data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019 and 2021, a substantial proportion – one in five – of adults in urban India are classified as overweight or obese. Alarmingly, a recent study published in The Lancet predicts that the number of overweight and obese adults in India is projected to more than double by the year 2050. This looming health crisis necessitates urgent and proactive interventions, especially given the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-induced health conditions among teenagers. These conditions, traditionally associated with adults, are now affecting younger individuals due to a combination of factors, including the excessive consumption of high-fat and sugary foods and a corresponding decline in physical activity levels. CBSE's proactive response involves empowering schools to transform their students into active participants in their own health journeys. The circular outlines several key strategies that schools are encouraged to implement to achieve this objective. These strategies include the installation of “Oil Boards” in strategic locations such as cafeterias, hallways, and common rooms. These visual displays are intended to initiate conversations among students about the detrimental effects of diets high in unhealthy fats. Furthermore, schools are encouraged to incorporate health-conscious messages into everyday school materials, such as diaries, notebooks, and folders. These messages will serve as daily prompts, reminding students to reconsider their food choices and activity habits. In addition to raising awareness, CBSE also emphasizes the importance of making healthier food options more accessible on campus. This involves increasing the availability of fresh fruits, vegetables, and low-fat alternatives, while simultaneously curbing the sale of packaged snacks and sugary drinks. Creating a supportive environment for physical activity is another crucial aspect of the initiative. Schools are encouraged to promote physical activity by organizing “movement breaks” during the school day, encouraging students to use the stairs instead of elevators, and creating walkable routes within the school premises. By implementing these measures, CBSE aims to create a school environment that actively promotes healthy eating and physical activity.
A particularly innovative aspect of the initiative is the emphasis on student involvement in the creation and dissemination of health-related information. Schools are encouraged to integrate Oil Board design into class projects, providing students with opportunities to research, conceptualize, and create health communication content. This approach not only enhances students' understanding of health issues but also develops valuable life skills and fosters creative expression. By involving students in the creation of health messaging, CBSE aims to increase the impact and effectiveness of the initiative. The circular also directs schools to utilize relevant educational content available on the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India's (FSSAI) official YouTube channel. FSSAI is the apex food regulator in India, and its YouTube channel provides a wealth of information on food safety, nutrition, and healthy eating habits. Institutions are further encouraged to connect with FSSAI at iec@fssai.gov.in for additional resources or guidance. This collaborative approach ensures that schools have access to the most up-to-date and reliable information on health and nutrition. The CBSE's initiative underscores a growing recognition that the classroom cannot exist in isolation from the broader issues of student health and lifestyle. With the strategic use of visual nudges, peer engagement, and school-wide involvement, CBSE hopes to instill lasting healthy habits in students, habits that extend beyond academic pursuits and into the fundamental aspects of well-being. The initiative recognizes that today's generation faces unique challenges, including academic pressure, digital fatigue, and rapidly changing food patterns. In this context, CBSE's move serves as a crucial reminder that learning to make healthier choices is as important as mastering academic subjects. It emphasizes the importance of equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the complex world of food and lifestyle choices and to make informed decisions that will benefit their health and well-being throughout their lives.
Furthermore, the implementation of the “Oil Boards” initiative is expected to have a ripple effect beyond the school environment. As students become more aware of the importance of healthy eating and physical activity, they are likely to influence their families and communities to adopt healthier lifestyles as well. This multiplier effect can contribute to a broader societal shift towards better health outcomes. The success of the initiative will depend on several factors, including the commitment of schools to fully implement the strategies outlined in the circular, the active participation of students in the design and dissemination of health messaging, and the availability of adequate resources and support from organizations such as FSSAI. It is also important to continuously monitor and evaluate the impact of the initiative to identify areas for improvement and ensure that it remains relevant and effective over time. The CBSE's “Oil Boards” initiative represents a bold and proactive step towards addressing the growing concern of student obesity and promoting healthier lifestyles among its affiliated schools. By creating a supportive school environment, empowering students to take control of their health, and fostering collaboration between schools, families, and communities, CBSE hopes to create a generation of healthy, well-rounded individuals who are equipped to thrive in all aspects of life. This initiative serves as a model for other educational institutions around the world that are grappling with similar challenges. By prioritizing student health and well-being, schools can not only improve academic outcomes but also contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future for all. The emphasis on preventive health measures is particularly important in the context of the rising burden of non-communicable diseases in India and globally. By promoting healthy habits from a young age, we can reduce the risk of developing these diseases later in life and improve overall quality of life. The CBSE's initiative is a significant step in this direction, and its success will depend on the collective efforts of schools, students, families, and communities. By working together, we can create a healthier and brighter future for the next generation.
Source: CBSE’s new ‘Oil Board’ mandate aims to curb rising student obesity and promote healthier living