Healthy Habits and Nutrition Key to Viksit Bharat 2047, Says Kishan Reddy

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy has stressed the importance of health, nutrition, sanitation, fitness, sports and the well-being of women and children in achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Reddy made the remarks at the valedictory programme of the five-day POSHAN MAAH celebrations organised by the Central Bureau of Communication (CBC), Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, in Hyderabad.

The Union Minister for Coal and Mines said a healthy nation is the foundation of a developed India and called for greater awareness about nutrition and healthy lifestyles. He said such awareness should not remain limited to government programmes and should develop into a people’s movement.

Reddy highlighted the role of students, youth and women in promoting healthy habits and appreciated activities conducted during the programme, including quiz, poster-making, video-making and nutritious recipe competitions.

He urged citizens to take personal responsibility for their health by following healthy dietary practices, getting adequate sleep and engaging in regular physical activity, including walking, yoga and sports.

The minister advised people to reduce excessive consumption of oil and sugar, avoid excessive junk food and prefer fresh and nutritious home-cooked food.

Expressing concern over lifestyle-related health challenges among children and young people, Reddy stressed the importance of developing healthy habits from an early age. He also called for regulated use of mobile phones and other digital devices and a balance between screen time and physical activity.

On drug abuse, Reddy said building a drug-free India was a collective responsibility. He called upon parents, teachers, educational institutions, police, voluntary organisations and society to work together to protect young people.

Referring to initiatives such as Nasha Mukt Bharat and Fit India, he said such efforts were part of building a healthier and stronger nation.

PIB and CBC Additional Director General Shruti Patil said the five-day programme created awareness among students about nutrition, balanced diets and healthy lifestyles through interactive activities and competitions.