In a significant move towards enhancing public health, Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary of the Department of Health Research, Government of India, and Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), unveiled "The Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs)" today. Developed by the prestigious ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN) in Hyderabad, these guidelines are evidence-based recommendations focusing on food and lifestyle choices to prevent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and ensure optimal nutrition for people of all ages across India.

The ICMR-NIN, renowned for its nutrition research, regularly updates the Dietary Allowances and Nutrient Requirements for Indians to reflect emerging scientific evidence and changing dietary patterns. The most recent revision occurred in 2020 and was updated in 2024.

The DGIs distill this scientific information into easily understandable recommendations, empowering individuals to make informed decisions regarding their diet and lifestyle to prevent NCDs like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Led by Dr. Hemalatha R, Director of ICMR-NIN, a multidisciplinary committee of experts meticulously drafted the guidelines after rigorous academic and scientific review. The document comprises 17 concise chapters, each presenting practical suggestions and key points for consideration.

Speaking at the release function held at ICMR Headquarters, Dr. Rajiv Bahl emphasized the significance of adapting to changing dietary habits in India. He highlighted the inclusion of practical advice in the guidelines, such as handling food safety, opting for minimally processed foods, understanding food labels, and promoting physical activity.

Dr. Bahl expressed confidence that these guidelines will complement government initiatives aimed at promoting holistic nutrition and improving public health outcomes.

Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Hemalatha R stressed the importance of ensuring access to nutrient-rich foods and promoting dietary diversity to combat malnutrition effectively. She emphasized that the guidelines align with the goals outlined in the National Nutrition Policy and are consistent with national policies on agriculture and health.

The release function witnessed participation from a diverse group of stakeholders, including scientists, academics, policymakers, regulators, representatives from the food industry, and multilateral international organizations. This collaborative effort underscores the collective commitment to addressing public health challenges and promoting nutrition security across India.