Delhi : Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has called for increased public awareness and policy interventions to address rising health concerns linked to food choices and lifestyles. His comments were made during a recent episode of Good Food Talks, a podcast hosted by Akshayakalpa Organic.
The discussion focused on the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as childhood diabetes and obesity, which the minister attributed in part to dietary habits and processed food consumption.
“Preventive healthcare is not just a policy ambition—it has to become a people’s movement,” said Gundu Rao during the podcast. He emphasized the importance of food transparency, the regulation of advertising targeted at youth, and a broader shift toward locally sourced and nutrient-rich diets.
The minister highlighted the influence of young people in shaping family food habits and encouraged schools to take a more active role in promoting awareness. He cited the example of Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) schools using “sugar boards” to help students identify sugar content in processed foods and recommended that similar practices be adopted nationwide.
In addition to advocating for clearer food labeling and stronger regulations on unhealthy products, Gundu Rao raised concerns about food adulteration and misinformation in the public domain. He also underscored the need for improved nutritional support for women and girls across different life stages.
The podcast episode is part of Akshayakalpa Organic’s ongoing series, Good Food Talks, which features discussions with policymakers, experts, and health advocates on food systems and consumer awareness.
The full episode is available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Obk6ruyv1UM.