Warning boards on samosas and jalebis in Nagpur: A revolutionary step for health Background and government initiative: We have all seen the scary pictures and warnings on cigarette packets, but now similar warnings will be seen near samosas, jalebis, and other fried or sweet items in shops and canteens in Nagpur. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued an important directive to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Nagpur, to install “oil and sugar boards”. These boards will be decorated in bright colours and will have details of the amount of sugar and trans fats present in everyday foods, such as samosas, jalebis, laddoos, and gulab jamuns. The aim is to make the public aware of how harmful their favourite snacks can be for their health. A senior official of AIIMS Nagpur said: “We have received this order, and we are preparing to install these boards in canteens, government offices, and public places. This is a small but important step that will create awareness among the people about their health.” Cardiologists’ stand: Cardiological Dr Amar Amale, president of the Nagpur branch of the Society of India (CSI), praised the move and said: “These warning boards are as important as the warnings printed on cigarette packets. We have been saying for years that sugar and trans fats are the new tobacco of the modern era. People have the right to know what they are putting in their bodies.” Dr Amale added that high-sugar and oily foods cause non-communicable diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, which are rapidly increasing in India. The aim of these boards is to make people think twice before eating. Growing obesity crisis: The figures given in the government letter are shocking. According to the report, by 2050, more than 449 million people in India will be either overweight or obese, making India the second largest obesity epicenter in the world. One in five adults in cities is already overweight, while obesity rates among children are also increasing at an alarming rate. The main reasons for this are poor diet and sedentary lifestyles. A senior The official said: “The hidden sugar and fat in our food are silent killers. A samosa or jalebi may seem innocent, but the trans fats and sugar in it can harm your health for years.” Part of Fit India campaign: This initiative is an important part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Fit India” campaign, which aims to encourage Indians to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Senior diabetes expert Dr. Sunil Gupta said: “This is not about imposing a ban, but about creating awareness. If people know that a gulab jamun can contain five teaspoons of sugar, they will definitely think before eating it.” Public response and future: This unique initiative will be a new experience for the people of Nagpur. While some are considering it a positive step, others feel that it may restrict their freedom to enjoy their favourite items. An X user wrote: “Warning boards on samosa and jalebi? This is like an attack on our hearts! But if it makes us healthy, why not try it?” On the other hand, a local shopkeeper said: “Our customers love samosas and jalebis. If boards are put up, maybe some people will buy less, but we support it for health.” Source: Navbharat Times: Hindustan Times: Times of India: India Today: The Indian Express: X-Posts: