What are the key health concerns for Indian youth highlighted in the 2025-26 Economic Survey?

The survey highlights a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, particularly obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, alongside emerging issues like digital addiction among Indian youth.

What are the statistics on obesity among Indian adults and children?

Obesity affects 24% of Indian women and 23% of men aged 15-49, while childhood obesity is rapidly increasing, with projections indicating over 8.3 crore obese children by 2035.

How is digital addiction impacting young people in India?

Digital addiction is linked to reduced concentration, sleep deprivation, anxiety, declining academic performance, and weakened social engagement among young individuals.

Home / Health / India's Youth Face Double Health Crisis: Obesity & Digital Overload

India's Youth Face Double Health Crisis: Obesity & Digital Overload

29 Jan

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Summary

Obesity affects 24% of women and 23% of men aged 15-49.
Childhood obesity is rapidly increasing, projected to reach 8.3 crore by 2035.
Digital addiction is an emerging concern linked to reduced concentration and anxiety.

India's Youth Face Double Health Crisis: Obesity & Digital Overload

India's 2025-26 Economic Survey reveals a significant public health shift, with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like obesity, diabetes, and hypertension becoming prominent. Previously, India focused on communicable diseases, but lifestyle changes and urbanization are driving this new health burden.

Obesity rates are alarming, affecting 24% of women and 23% of men aged 15-49, with child obesity numbers rapidly increasing. Projections suggest over 8.3 crore children could be obese by 2035 if current trends persist, leading to future health complications.

The survey also identifies digital addiction as an emerging threat among young people. Compulsive use of smartphones and social media is linked to reduced concentration, sleep deprivation, anxiety, and declining academic performance.