Karnataka government reduces cooking oil in midday meals by 10% after PM Modi’s appeal

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, March 24, 2025: In response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for healthier eating habits, the Karnataka government has directed officials to reduce cooking oil usage in midday meals for schoolchildren by 10%. This move follows a directive from the Union Ministry of Education, highlighting concerns over rising obesity and heart diseases among students.

Revised Oil Usage Guidelines for Midday Meals

Under the PM Poshan Scheme, K.V. Trilok Chandra, Commissioner of the Department of School Education and Literacy, has issued new guidelines to limit sunflower oil usage in government and aided schools:

• Classes 1-5: Oil usage capped at 5 grams per child

• Classes 6-10: Oil usage capped at 7.5 grams per child

Promoting Healthy Eating Among Students

To reinforce healthier food habits, schools have been urged to:

• Use minimal oil while preparing fresh, nutritious meals

• Train midday meal staff in low-oil cooking techniques with guidance from nutrition experts

• Organize awareness programs, quizzes, and competitions on healthy eating, rewarding students for participation

• Encourage steaming and boiling over deep-frying

• Discourage the consumption of processed and junk foods

Rising Childhood Obesity in India

The government’s decision is backed by research from The Lancet, which reports:

• The number of overweight children (ages 5-19) in India surged from 0.4 million in 1990 to 12.5 million in 2022

• High oil consumption contributes to lifestyle diseases, making regulation in school meals essential

PM Modi’s Appeal on "Mann Ki Baat"

In his Mann Ki Baat radio address, PM Modi emphasized the global rise in obesity and suggested:

"Make small efforts—reduce your monthly oil consumption by 10%. If you buy a certain amount every month, purchase 10% less. Even a small change can have a big impact on health."

A Step Toward a Healthier Future

With excessive oil intake linked to heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure, Karnataka’s initiative aims to instill better dietary habits and promote long-term health among schoolchildren.