New Delhi, May 25, 2025 — In a proactive step towards promoting healthier eating habits among schoolchildren, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all affiliated schools across the country to set up dedicated ‘Sugar Awareness Boards’ on their campuses. The move is aimed at educating students and parents about the harmful impact of excessive sugar intake, especially from hidden sources in daily diets.
Experts Response to Childhood Obesity
Health experts, educators, and nutritionists have welcomed the initiative, calling it a timely response to the growing public health threat posed by childhood obesity, early-onset Type-2 diabetes, and related metabolic disorders. By encouraging schools to highlight sugar content in common foods, the initiative hopes to instill awareness from an early age.
Dr. R. Goswami, Professor of Endocrinology (AIIMS Delhi) said that this is a commendable step and he also added that excessive sugar consumption, especially through processed foods and sugary beverages, has become a silent contributor to lifestyle diseases in children. Awareness is the first line of prevention.”
What Are Sugar Boards?
The Sugar Boards will be prominently displayed within school premises — in canteens, corridors, and near entry points — featuring visually engaging content. These boards will:
- Highlight the daily recommended sugar intake for different age groups.
- Educate on the difference between natural and added sugars.
- Display sugar content in commonly consumed items like soft drinks, packaged juices, cookies, and breakfast cereals.
- Offer healthy eating tips and alternatives to sugary snacks.
The CBSE has asked schools to ensure the content is age-appropriate and interactive, making it easier for young learners to grasp the message.
From Home to School: A Unified Effort for Better Nutrition
Educators believe that the initiative will not only influence children’s food choices but also raise awareness among parents, many of whom remain unaware of the sugar levels in everyday products. Nutritionists say the initiative aligns well with school health programs and could be integrated into classroom activities and science lessons.
“Food literacy must be a part of a child’s early education,” said Ankita Verma, a clinical nutritionist and school health advisor. “Simple knowledge, like reading food labels or recognizing hidden sugars, can have a long-term impact on a child’s well-being.”
Nurturing a Generation with Informed Eating Habits
The Sugar Board initiative aligns with the national goal of tackling non-communicable diseases through preventive healthcare. It also complements recent efforts by FSSAI and the Ministry of Education to reduce junk food availability near schools and encourage nutritious, balanced meals in school canteens.
Conclusion
As lifestyle diseases continue to rise in India’s younger population, CBSE’s sugar awareness drive is being seen as a much-needed wake-up call. With support from health professionals and educators, the initiative could set the foundation for a generation that makes informed, healthier food choices — both inside and outside the classroom.
Date – 2 to 6 June, 2025 Time – 7 PM to 10 PM Fee – Rs 3000
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