India, Feb. 15 -- Warning labels, ad bans, and health taxes-India must act now to curb obesity and diabetes. India is losing its battle against non-communicable diseases (NCDs). With 1 in 4 adults diabetic or prediabetic and over half of children showing metabolic markers of NCDs, the health and economic toll is devastating. It is like sitting on a ticking time-bomb. The Economic Survey 2024-25 finally acknowledges the role of ultra-processed food products (UPFs) in this crisis. But recognition alone isn't enough-we need decisive action now.

A Crisis Acknowledged The Survey highlights that UPFs-laden with unhealthy additives, excess sugar, and refined grains-pose grave health risks, directly linking their consumption to 32 adverse health...