Special Correspondent
New Delhi: In a significant move aimed at tackling the rising problem of obesity among children and adolescents, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a new directive instructing all affiliated schools to establish ‘Oil Boards’ within their premises. The initiative is part of the Board’s ongoing efforts to create a healthier school environment and promote better dietary and lifestyle habits among students.
According to Circular No. Acad-45/2025, dated 15th July 2025, CBSE has highlighted alarming data from recent health surveys. As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), more than one in five adults living in urban areas of India are now overweight or obese. The problem is projected to worsen, with a recent Lancet GBD 2021 study forecasting that the number of obese adults in India could rise from 18 crore in 2021 to 44.9 crore by 2050. This would place India as the country with the second-highest obesity burden globally. The rise in childhood obesity, CBSE notes, is largely driven by poor dietary choices and reduced physical activity.
In response, the board has recommended several actionable steps for schools. The first is the installation of ‘Oil Boards’—digital or static visual displays placed in common areas such as cafeterias, lobbies, and public corridors. These boards will serve to educate students and staff about the harmful effects of unhealthy fat consumption and encourage them to make more informed food choices.
In addition to visual awareness, CBSE has advised that health-related messages should be printed on all school stationery including letterheads, notepads, folders, and envelopes. The idea is to reinforce the message of healthy living as a daily reminder for everyone within the school community.
Further, schools have been encouraged to actively promote healthy eating and physical activity. This includes offering nutritious food options such as more fruits, vegetables, and low-fat meals, while limiting access to sugary drinks and fried snacks. Physical activity should also be integrated into the school routine through short exercise breaks, promotion of stair use, and the development of walking paths within the campus.
The circular also emphasizes that students themselves can play a role by preparing Oil Boards as part of experiential learning projects. Sample formats for these boards have been attached in the circular’s annexure for schools to refer to and customize as needed.
Educational and awareness materials, including posters and videos, are available on the official YouTube channel of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Schools seeking further information or support may reach out to FSSAI via email at iec@fssai.gov.in.
This initiative follows CBSE’s earlier directive dated 14th May 2025, which focused on setting up ‘Sugar Boards’ to raise awareness about the ill effects of excessive sugar consumption.
By taking these steps, CBSE aims to instil healthier habits among young learners and ensure a more robust and wellness-oriented educational environment across the country.
