Sri Vijaya Puram, May 28: The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has appealed to residents across the Islands to reduce their daily edible oil consumption by at least 10%, aligning with a nationwide health awareness initiative aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles and preventing lifestyle-related diseases.
In a public advisory issued on Tuesday from Sri Vijaya Puram, the Administration said the initiative follows the call made by Prime Minister under the broader vision of “Viksit Bharat 2047”, which emphasizes preventive healthcare and healthier living practices.
Officials warned that excessive intake of edible oil, especially the repeated reuse of cooking oil, has increasingly become a major public health concern linked to obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver complications and several chronic illnesses. The advisory stressed that small dietary changes adopted at the household level could significantly improve long-term health outcomes.
Health experts have repeatedly pointed out that modern eating habits, including increased dependence on fried food and processed fast food, are contributing to a rise in non-communicable diseases across India, including in remote and island territories. The Administration said the current awareness drive seeks to encourage families to rethink cooking practices and shift towards more balanced food habits.
Among the key recommendations issued to the public are purchasing oil in limited quantities to better monitor household consumption and using measuring spoons while cooking to avoid excessive use. Residents have also been advised to rotate different edible oils instead of relying on a single type, as part of maintaining balanced nutrition.
The advisory specifically cautioned against reusing cooking oil for frying purposes, stating that reheated oil can release harmful compounds associated with various health risks. Citizens were further encouraged to reduce intake of butter, ghee and deep-fried snacks, while shifting towards healthier cooking techniques such as steaming, boiling and grilling.
In addition, the Administration urged people to consume more fruits, vegetables and traditional nutritious foods, which are often richer in fibre and essential nutrients compared to processed alternatives.
The campaign comes at a time when healthcare authorities across the country are increasingly focusing on preventive healthcare rather than treatment-based approaches. Public health studies have shown that high-fat diets and sedentary lifestyles are contributing significantly to rising healthcare burdens in India.
Officials said the “10% Less Oil” awareness initiative is not intended as a strict dietary restriction but as a practical and achievable behavioural change that can be gradually adopted by households. By encouraging modest reductions in oil usage, authorities hope to create wider awareness regarding nutrition and long-term wellness.
The Administration has appealed to educational institutions, community organizations and families to actively participate in spreading awareness regarding healthy dietary habits. Residents have also been encouraged to support one another in adopting healthier meal practices and reducing dependency on oily and processed foods.
Authorities believe that community participation will play a critical role in ensuring the success of the initiative, particularly in regions where changing dietary patterns and increasing dependence on packaged foods are becoming more visible.
The Administration reiterated that even small lifestyle adjustments, if sustained consistently, can produce major health benefits over time and contribute to building a healthier society across the Islands
