Schools to Display Oil Boards and Promote Fitness Under New CBSE Guidelines

National News: In a follow-up circular dated July 15, 2025, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) confirmed its previous recommendations for encouraging pupils to lead healthy lifestyles by setting up "oil boards" in classrooms.  According to CBSE, the goal of this program was to educate staff and students on the risks of consuming too much oil and to promote better eating and exercise habits.

Over one in five adults in urban areas are obese

According to the CBSE board, more than one in five persons in metropolitan areas are overweight or obese, citing data from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5, 2019–21). CBSE emphasised that the number of overweight and obese adults in India is expected to more than double, from 18 crore in 2021 to 44.9 crore by 2050, citing the 2025 Lancet Global Burden of Disease (GBD) obesity predicting study.

According to CBSE, inadequate physical activity and bad eating habits are the main causes of childhood obesity. The CBSE circular, which was directed at school administrators, called for a number of actions to raise awareness among staff and students.

Installation of Oil Boards

In order to raise awareness of the negative consequences of high oil consumption, schools must put up static or digital posters in public spaces, including meeting rooms, lobbies and cafeterias.

Health Messaging on Official Stationery

Letterheads, envelopes, notepads, folders, and publications with messages encouraging healthy habits printed on them are intended to serve as continuous reminders to fight obesity.

Promotion of Healthy Meals and Physical Activity

It is recommended that schools limit sugar-filled beverages and high-fat snacks while offering wholesome meal alternatives that prioritise fruits, vegetables, and low-fat options. Initiatives for physical activity include promoting the use of stairs, providing walking routes throughout campus, and allowing brief breaks for exercise during school hours.