Holistic development of fitness in children and youth in India: need for development of a sustainable model

Globally, many of the major causes of death connect to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) associated with physical inactivity, such as obesity, heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, and diabetes. It has been reported that 10% of all deaths, from NCDs, can be attributed to physical inactivity. There are 300 million schoolgoing and 80 million out of-school children in India between the age group of 5 to 18 years. Survey of Indian council of medical research has indicated that 20% of Children are is overweight or obese; another survey indicated that 40% of Primary School Children are underweight and Obesity in 12 to 19 years and the number has tripled since 1970. 90% Indians believe that Schools and Workplaces are responsible for creating a healthy and active environment. Several Studies have shown that extending of focus beyond Academics to Sports and other activities improves classroom attendance and interest in studies. Sports and physical activity require innovative and scientific model which can play a crucial role in the implementation of health-related SDGs and further help in the achievement of “Healthy/fit India”. Sports science and technology in India has changed the way sport is and physical activity are played and perceived. India has developed a sports ecosystem that is leading to increased participation in sport and physical activity. The Government of India has taken number of measures for the development of Sports and physical activity. India has launched Fit India plan to achieve health-related SDGs through sport and physical activity.

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