Mirabai Chanu joins PM's fight against obesity, says small changes can make big difference

New Delhi: Joining Prime Minister Narendra Modi's fight against obesity, Olympic silver medallist weightlifter Mirabai Chanu on Monday stressed that small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in combatting the "major health concern".

The initiative took off on Monday after Prime Minister Modi nominated 10 individuals from various fields, including Chanu, to lead efforts in combating obesity.

His announcement came a day after he urged people to take proactive measures to address the growing health concern.

"Elated to be nominated by PM Modi ji to spread awareness in the fight against obesity. This is a major health concern which can be eliminated by making the right lifestyle choices and choosing to be active, healthy and fit," the 30-year-old former world champion weightlifter posted on X.

"We need India to move in this direction to support and enhance our growth journey. Making small changes to our daily lives can result in a huge transformations for the country and help us move towards achieving our dream of making a Fit India," she added.

As part of the initiative, Chanu nominated several prominent sportspersons, including reigning world chess champion D Gukesh, Olympic bronze medal-winning shuttler Saina Nehwal, shooting legend Gagan Narang, former women's hockey captain Rani Rampal, men's hockey player Manpreet Singh, tennis icon Leander Paes, double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu, Paris Games medallist shooter Sarabjot Singh, table tennis star Manika Batra, and Paralympic shooting champions Avani Lekhara.