CBSE Takes Action: New 'Sugar Boards' to Combat Rising Diabetes in Children

New Initiative to Tackle Childhood Diabetes

New Delhi: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has mandated that schools under its jurisdiction create 'sugar boards' aimed at monitoring and curbing children's sugar consumption, as reported by officials.

The CBSE has observed a troubling rise in Type 2 diabetes cases among children, a condition that was predominantly seen in adults until recently, over the last ten years.

This concerning trend is primarily linked to high sugar consumption, which is often fueled by the easy access to sugary snacks, drinks, and processed foods in school settings. Excessive sugar intake not only heightens the risk of diabetes but also leads to obesity, dental issues, and various metabolic disorders, adversely affecting children's long-term health and academic success, according to a letter sent to school principals.

Research shows that sugar accounts for 13% of the daily caloric intake for children aged four to ten, and 15% for those aged eleven to eighteen, significantly surpassing the recommended limit of 5%.

The CBSE highlighted that the widespread availability of sugary snacks and drinks in schools is a major contributor to this excessive sugar consumption.

This directive follows a recommendation from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), which is dedicated to safeguarding the rights of children, particularly those who are vulnerable and marginalized.

Schools are instructed to set up 'sugar boards' that will display information to educate students about the dangers of high sugar intake.

These boards should include vital information such as the recommended daily sugar intake, sugar content in commonly consumed unhealthy foods (like junk food and soft drinks), health risks associated with high sugar consumption, and healthier dietary options. This initiative aims to empower students to make informed food choices and promote long-term health benefits.

Additionally, schools are encouraged to conduct awareness seminars and workshops related to this initiative.

The board has requested that schools submit a brief report along with photographs by July 15.