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Kerala’s General Education and Health Departments have launched a new awareness drive in schools to tackle the alarming rise of type 2 diabetes among children, especially in rural and small-town areas. A health survey conducted over the past two years across 2,300 schools revealed that children are consuming excessive amounts of sugar. “These results alarmed us. We must educate both children and parents about the dangers of high sugar intake,” said a senior official from the General Education Department.

‘Sugar Boards’ to Educate, Not Just Decorate

As part of this initiative, the Director of General Education has instructed all government and aided schools under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme to install ‘Sugar Boards’. These boards will show the sugar content in common foods and drinks using clear, visual comparisons—such as teaspoons and sugar cubes—to help children recognise the hidden sugar in their diets., thus being sugar smart By placing these boards in canteens, kitchens, classrooms, and auditoriums, schools aim to encourage students to think twice about their food choices and understand the long-term health risks of too much sugar. The initiative also urges parents and school staff to get involved. By promoting healthy food habits at home and in school kitchens, the program aims to create a more health-conscious community and reduce the risk of early-onset diabetes in children.

In Step with National Guidelines

Kerala’s move follows the example set by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), which had already encouraged affiliated schools to install Sugar Boards and promote healthy eating. Now, Kerala is expanding that effort to all state syllabus schools, reinforcing the importance of early health education. Health experts have expressed concern about the rise of type 2 diabetes among children. “This condition can lead to serious complications—heart disease, nerve damage, kidney failure, and even vision loss,” said Dr. Sidharth, a paediatrician from Ernakulam. “We need to act early. Awareness and healthy habits are key to prevention.”

By introducing Sugar Boards, Kerala is taking a bold step to protect the health of its students. Through early education and visible reminders, the state hopes to help children make smarter choices and prevent a lifetime of health problems.

Source: News Nine