India Ranks Second Globally in Childhood Obesity with Rising Health Risks by 2040

India ranks second globally in childhood overweight and obesity, after China, with 41 million children having high BMI and 14 million living with obesity as of 2025. Projections indicate 20 million children will be obese by 2040, with 56 million overweight or obese, increasing risks of hypertension, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Experts highlight lifestyle changes, limited awareness, and call for policy actions like sugar taxes and stricter junk food regulations. Despite active weight-loss efforts, many Indians underestimate obesity-related health risks, underscoring the need for public health interventions.