Minister Urges National Drive to Curb Type 2 Diabetes

Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister and noted Diabetologist, emphasizes prevention over cure in diabetes management, countering myths and calling for evidence-based public health messaging to address India‘s growing metabolic health crisis.

Highlights:

• Event: Foundation Day of the Research Society for Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI)
• Date & Venue: July 29, 2025, at India International Centre, New Delhi
• Speaker: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh, Patron of RSSDI
• Theme: “RSSDI – Past, Present and Future”
• Focus: Combating myths, promoting prevention of Type 2 Diabetes, reducing obesity and related disorders
• Key Quote: “Treat Diabetes before it Occurs – Prevention better than cure”
• Milestone: RSSDI celebrates 53 years since its founding in 1972
• Study Highlighted: Indian Prevention of Diabetes Study (IPDS) shows Yoga’s effectiveness in diabetes prevention

In a significant address on the Foundation Day of the Research Society for Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), Union Minister and noted Diabetologist Dr. Jitendra Singh advocated for a nationwide campaign to prevent diabetes, particularly among the youth. Held at the India International Centre, New Delhi, the event marked 53 years of RSSDI, India’s largest body of diabetes experts, under the theme “RSSDI – Past, Present and Future.”

Dr. Singh, who has over three decades of clinical experience before entering public service, used the occasion to debunk widespread myths around diabetes and other metabolic disorders. He stressed that India, often referred to as the “Diabetes Capital of the World,” needs urgent and targeted public health efforts to curb rising numbers. “Treat diabetes before it occurs – prevention is better than cure,” he declared.

Dr. Singh reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for better national health, highlighting the target of reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by 10%, especially those associated with obesity, visceral fat, and fatty liver. He warned against unscientific practices like extreme fasting or “one meal a day,” and advocated for evidence-based, balanced approaches to diet and lifestyle.

Dr. Singh also celebrated the legacy of Prof. Dr. M.M. Ahuja, RSSDI’s first president, and acknowledged the evolution of RSSDI from a small 20-member body in 1972 to a globally respected academic and consultative institution.

Highlighting new research, Dr. Singh shared insights from the Indian Prevention of Diabetes Study (IPDS), led by Prof. S.V. Madhu, which demonstrates Yoga’s proven effectiveness in preventing Type 2 Diabetes. The findings have been submitted to the Ministry of Health with the support of Union Health Minister Shri J.P. Nadda.

The event featured deliberations from top medical professionals including Prof. S.V. Madhu, Prof. P.V. Rao, Dr. Vijay Viswanathan (President, RSSDI), and Dr. Sanjay Agarwal (Secretary, RSSDI). Together with past presidents and patrons, they reflected on RSSDI’s impactful journey and its future role in shaping evidence-based national diabetes policies.

Dr. Singh concluded by calling for a mass public awareness strategy, where scientific research translates into practical benefits for high-risk populations, especially the youth, aligning with India’s broader goal of a healthier, more informed society.