India advises 10% cooking oil reduction in school meals

The Indian government has advised states to reduce cooking oil use by 10% in school meals to address childhood obesity. This recommendation follows Prime Minister Modi's recent comments on the rising obesity rates among children. The advisory encourages schools to promote healthy eating through various initiatives, including sessions with nutrition experts and activities focused on low-oil diets. It aims to educate students about the health risks associated with excessive oil consumption. The PM POSHAN scheme, which provides nutritious meals to students, received a budget increase for 2025-26. The government has outlined 17 activities for schools to raise awareness about healthy eating and the benefits of reducing oil in meals.