LUCKNOW, July 18 -- In a fresh move to promote healthy eating habits to curb problems like obesity in students and staff, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has directed all its affiliated schools to establish 'oil boards'. This is in continuation with its earlier circular on 'sugar boards'.

In a letter to school principals, CBSE director (academics) Dr Praggya M Singh cited alarming statistics, noting a sharp increase in obesity among both children and adults. She highlighted that as per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019-21), over one in five adults in urban areas are overweight or obese.

As per 'The Lancet GBD 2021' obesity forecasting study published in 2025, the number of overweight and obese adults in Ind...