Fight Against Obesity Requires a Countrywide Collective Effort

When I heard Prime Minister Narendra Modi's clarion call to fight obesity in India, it resonated deeply with me.

- Neeraj Chopra

I knew firsthand the struggles of being overweight, the stigma that comes with it, and the immense transformation that sports and fitness can bring. My own journey—from an overweight child to the Olympic podium—has been a result of determination, having the right mindset and a disciplined approach. If we have all these approaches, one can overcome any hurdle.

Obesity is not just about physical appearance; it's about health and well-being. Today, India faces an alarming rise in obesity across all age groups. Childhood obesity is becoming a serious concern with more and more young people falling into sedentary lifestyles dominated by fast food, excessive screen time, and a lack of physical activity. This not only affects their physical health but also their mental well-being, leading to lower self-esteem, increasing the risk of diseases like diabetes and heart conditions.

For athletes, obesity is an even bigger challenge. Carrying excess weight affects mobility, endurance, and performance. It slows down reaction time, puts stress on joints, and reduces stamina—factors that can make the difference between victory and defeat. However, the good news is that sports and physical activity provide the most effective way to tackle this issue head-on. Exercise burns excess calories, boosts metabolism, improves muscle-to-fat ratio, and regulates appetite. For young athletes and fitness enthusiasts, sports bring discipline, endurance, and mental strength. They help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, which are often linked to emotional eating and unhealthy weight gain.