The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has instructed its affiliated schools to set up “sugar boards” aimed at monitoring and reducing sugar consumption among students.

This initiative comes in response to growing concerns of increased incidence of Type 2 diabetes in children, a condition once largely seen in adults. CBSE has linked this trend to the widespread availability of sugary snacks, beverages, and processed foods in schools, which also contribute to rise in obesity, dental issues, and declining academic performance.

The sugar boards will feature important information such as recommended daily sugar intake, sugar level in commonly used foods, health risks associated with high sugar consumption, and suggest healthier food  alternatives.

Additionally, schools have also been directed to organize awareness seminars and workshops, and to submit a brief report along  with photographs by July 15.

This initiative aligns with recommendation from the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) to foster healthier food environments within schools.