In the 122nd episode of his monthly radio show, Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted a creative initiative from the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) — the introduction of ‘Sugar Boards’ in schools.
Moving away from the usual blackboards, these innovative ‘sugar boards’ are designed to help students become more aware of their daily sugar intake and promote healthier lifestyle choices from a young age.
“Friends, you might have seen blackboards in schools, but now we’re also installing ‘sugar boards’ in some places – not blackboards, but sugar boards! The goal of this unique CBSE initiative is to educate children about their sugar consumption.
By learning how much sugar they should be eating versus what they actually consume, kids are starting to make healthier choices on their own,” PM Modi explained.
He described the campaign as a ‘unique effort’ and pointed out its positive effects on children, stressing the importance of expanding such awareness initiatives beyond schools to workplaces, canteens, and other institutions. “After all, if you have health, you have everything. A Fit India is the cornerstone of a strong India,” the Prime Minister remarked.
So, what exactly are ‘sugar boards’?
The idea of sugar boards was officially introduced by CBSE in a letter dated May 14, 2025, sent to all principals of affiliated schools. The letter encouraged schools to create specific information panels or display boards — known as ‘Sugar Boards’ — that inform students about the sugar content in popular foods and drinks, while also highlighting the dangers of excessive sugar consumption.
The initiative comes at a time when there’s increasing worry about the rise of Type 2 diabetes and obesity among children—health issues that were once thought to only affect adults but are now becoming more common in younger age groups. The CBSE has highlighted that sugary snacks, processed foods, and drinks are significant contributors to this worrying trend.
According to studies referenced in the CBSE letter, kids aged 4-10 are consuming sugar that makes up about 13 percent of their daily calorie intake, while those between 11 and 18 years are taking in around 15 percent—well above the recommended limit of just five percent.
Empowering through education
The Sugar Boards are meant to be more than just informative posters. They aim to empower students by sharing practical knowledge, such as:
- The recommended daily sugar intake for children
- The hidden sugar content found in junk food, sodas, packaged juices, and processed snacks
- The short- and long-term health impacts of too much sugar, including diabetes, obesity, dental problems, and energy crashes
- Healthy alternatives and tips for cutting back on sugar
Some schools have already started rolling out interactive activities, workshops, and peer-learning sessions centered around the concept of Sugar Boards, which has sparked discussions among students and even led to changes in cafeteria menus.
A model for wider adoption
The positive response to this initiative has led to suggestions for implementing similar awareness programs in other environments. As PM Modi pointed out, the success seen in schools could serve as a blueprint for health education campaigns in corporate offices, canteens, public institutions, and beyond.
The Sugar Board initiative is in sync with larger national efforts like the Fit India Movement and Eat Right India, highlighting the government’s commitment to preventive healthcare and encouraging lifestyle changes.
In a world where packaged and processed foods are everywhere, the CBSE’s Sugar Board initiative serves as a refreshing reminder to embrace mindful eating habits.
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