CBSE directs all schools to create 'oil boards' to raise awareness about healthy lifestyle among students

By Admin

17 Jul, 2025

In a proactive step toward combating childhood obesity and encouraging healthier habits among students, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated the establishment of 'oil boards' across all affiliated schools. This move follows CBSE’s earlier directive on creating ‘sugar boards’, released via a circular on 14 May 2025, as part of an ongoing campaign to promote nutritious lifestyles in educational institutions.

A Response to the Rising Obesity Crisis

India is currently facing a steep rise in obesity, both in children and adults. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) conducted between 2019 and 2021, more than one in five adults in urban India are overweight or obese. Adding to the concern, a recent Lancet Global Burden of Disease (GBD) Study (2021)   published in 2025   has projected that the number of overweight and obese adults in India will soar from 18 crores in 2021 to 44.9 crores by 2050, placing India at second globally in obesity burden.

What Are 'Oil Boards'?

The newly announced ‘oil boards’ will serve as visual reminders to help students understand the health implications of excessive oil consumption. Schools have been encouraged to design these boards with creativity and customize them based on their own methods of engagement. The goal is to instill awareness and mindfulness about dietary choices from an early age.

CBSE’s Key Directives for Schools

• Install oil boards to visually demonstrate oil usage in food and its health effects.
  
  

• Include obesity prevention messages on all official documents.
  
  

• Promote nutritious food options and discourage junk food within school premises.
  
  

• Encourage physical activity, including walking and using stairs instead of elevators.
  
  

• Allow creative freedom in the design and placement of oil boards.
  
  

Support from the Union Health Ministry

This CBSE initiative is well-aligned with the Union Health Ministry’s recent proposal in June 2025, which recommended that schools, offices, and public institutions display boards showing oil and sugar content in commonly consumed food items like samosas, vada paav, pizzas, and burgers. The objective is to raise widespread awareness and promote accountability in food choices.

Prime Minister Modi’s Call for Healthier Lifestyles

Back in March 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi voiced strong concern over the increasing obesity rates and called upon citizens to reduce oil usage in cooking by 10%. He warned of the potential health crisis if lifestyle changes are not made, stating:

“One in every three Indians could face life-threatening conditions due to obesity by 2050. We must take conscious steps to lower oil consumption and improve dietary habits.”

Conclusion

The creation of oil boards is more than just a visual initiative it’s a powerful message. By involving schools, students, and families, CBSE aims to build a healthier generation that makes informed food choices. With obesity projected to affect over 440 million Indians by 2050, such initiatives are not just timely they are essential.

Let this be a wake-up call for all stakeholders students, parents, educators, and policymakers to join hands in promoting a future where health and awareness go hand in hand.