Prime Minister Narendra Modi today, June 29, 2025, used his widely popular monthly radio address, ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ to emphasize the critical importance of fitness and express deep concern over the escalating problem of obesity in India. In the 123rd episode of the program, the Prime Minister passionately advocated for increased health awareness among citizens, offering practical tips for a healthier lifestyle, including a simple yet impactful dietary change.

Addressing millions across the nation, PM Modi, as is customary in ‘Mann Ki Baat,’ wove together inspiring stories, social concerns, and significant national issues. Among these, public health and fitness took center stage. The rapidly rising rates of obesity in India have become a pressing concern, impacting the overall well-being and productivity of the population. The Prime Minister has consistently championed health-related topics, striving to raise public consciousness, and today’s episode further reinforced this commitment with actionable advice for listeners.

PM Modi’s Fitness Mantra: Reduce Oil by 10%

In his address, Prime Minister Modi urged citizens to prioritize their fitness and well-being to unlock their full potential. “Friends, if we want to expand our capabilities, first and foremost, we must focus on our Fitness and Wellbeing,” he stated.

He then reminded listeners of a simple, yet effective, suggestion he has previously given for fitness and reducing obesity: “You remember my suggestion for fitness, for reducing obesity, don’t you? Reduce oil in your food by 10%, reduce obesity. When you are Fit, you will be even more Super Hit in life.”

This “10% oil reduction” mantra is a practical and easily adoptable dietary change that PM Modi believes can lead to significant health benefits without requiring drastic lifestyle overhauls or stringent dieting.

The Science Behind Reducing Oil Consumption

While seemingly a small change, reducing daily oil intake by just 10% can have a profound positive impact on overall health. Here’s why this simple tip is effective:

• Calorie Reduction: One gram of oil contains approximately 9 calories. By cutting down just 10% of daily oil consumption, individuals can save hundreds of calories each week. This subtle reduction can gradually lead to weight loss without the need for strict dieting, making it a sustainable approach to managing obesity.
• Heart Health Improvement: Oils, especially those high in saturated and trans fats, are known to raise cholesterol levels, significantly increasing the risk of heart diseases. Reducing oil intake by 10% can help lower “bad cholesterol” (LDL) and increase “good cholesterol” (HDL), thereby promoting better cardiovascular health. Reports from health organizations like Healthline consistently highlight the link between excessive oil consumption and heart ailments.
• Improved Digestion: Foods cooked with less oil are generally lighter and easier to digest. A reduction in oil can alleviate common digestive complaints such as acidity, gas, and constipation. This is particularly beneficial for children and the elderly, whose digestive systems may be more sensitive.
• Skin and Hair Health: Excessive oil in the diet can often manifest in skin problems like acne and make hair feel greasy. By reducing oil intake, individuals may notice clearer skin and healthier, less oily hair, contributing to overall personal well-being and appearance.

PM Modi’s emphasis on this particular aspect of diet aligns with broader public health recommendations that advocate for balanced nutrition and moderation in fat intake as fundamental components of a healthy lifestyle.

Promoting Yoga for Holistic Well-being

Beyond dietary advice, Prime Minister Modi also reiterated the significance of Yoga for holistic health. He highlighted the massive participation in the International Day of Yoga celebrations on June 21, 2025, which saw millions of people across India and globally engaging in various yoga activities.

PM Modi noted that the International Day of Yoga began 10 years ago, and each year since, the tradition has become “more grand and magnificent than ever before.” This sustained and growing participation, he emphasized, clearly indicates that “more and more people are incorporating Yoga into their lives.”

Yoga, an ancient Indian practice, is celebrated for its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Its increasing adoption globally and nationally aligns with the government’s broader agenda of promoting traditional Indian wellness practices as a means to achieve overall health and combat modern lifestyle diseases. The large-scale observance of Yoga Day reflects a growing collective consciousness towards preventive healthcare and personal well-being.

‘Mann Ki Baat’: A Platform for Public Engagement

‘Mann Ki Baat,’ which literally translates to ‘बात’ (talks) from the ‘मन’ (heart), serves as a unique direct communication channel between the Prime Minister and the citizens of India. Through this monthly radio program, PM Modi addresses a wide array of topics, from national achievements and social initiatives to personal anecdotes and calls for community participation. It has consistently been used to raise awareness on critical issues like cleanliness (Swachh Bharat Abhiyan), water conservation, local craftsmanship (Vocal for Local), and now, fitness and combating obesity.

The program’s accessibility via radio ensures that it reaches even the most remote parts of the country, enabling the Prime Minister to connect directly with a vast and diverse audience, disseminating messages of public interest and fostering a sense of collective responsibility. The focus on health and well-being in the latest episode underscores the government’s concern for the nation’s rising health challenges and its proactive approach to encouraging healthier lifestyles.

As India continues to grapple with the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, largely linked to lifestyle factors including diet and physical inactivity, PM Modi’s consistent push for fitness and simple health tips through platforms like ‘Mann Ki Baat’ plays a crucial role in raising national awareness and motivating citizens towards better health outcomes.