The Central Government is preparing to launch a nationwide fitness and preventive healthcare campaign to tackle the rising burden of non communicable diseases (NCDs), following fresh data showing a sharp increase in lifestyle related illnesses across the country. The initiative is expected to promote physical activity, healthy eating and early screening as part of India’s broader preventive healthcare strategy.

According to recent government data, nearly 50% of India’s population now suffers from non communicable diseases and metabolic disorders, a significant increase from 31% a decade ago. The findings indicate a steep rise in diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, obesity and other lifestyle related conditions, which now account for a growing share of the country’s disease burden.

Health officials said the proposed fitness push will focus on encouraging regular exercise, healthier dietary habits and routine health check-ups while strengthening awareness about risk factors such as physical inactivity, tobacco use, unhealthy diets and excessive alcohol consumption. The campaign is expected to complement existing national programmes for the prevention and control of NCDs.

According to WHO, non-communicable diseases account for 74% of all deaths globally, while in India they contribute to over 60% of total mortality. Public health experts warn that increasing urbanisation, sedentary lifestyles and changing dietary patterns are accelerating the prevalence of chronic diseases, particularly among younger adults.

Healthcare experts have welcomed the government’s preventive health initiative, stating that sustained investments in fitness promotion, early diagnosis and behavioural change are essential to reducing the long term burden of chronic diseases. They believe a nationwide focus on preventive healthcare can significantly lower healthcare costs while improving productivity and quality of life.