Introduction
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), under the Ministry of Education, has always been proactive about the holistic development of students. Taking another health-conscious leap, CBSE has recently released a circular (Acad-45/2025) introducing the concept of ‘Oil Boards’ in schools. This initiative follows the earlier successful ‘Sugar Board’ drive launched in May 2025. But what exactly are Oil Boards? And why are they so crucial for our school environments? Let’s break it down in simple words.
Why This Step Was Necessary
India is witnessing a concerning rise in obesity, especially in urban areas. According to NFHS-5 (2019-21) data, more than 20% of urban adults are either overweight or obese. A study published in The Lancet GBD 2021, forecasts that the number of obese adults in India could rise from 18 crore in 2021 to 44.9 crore by 2050—making India the second-highest globally in obesity burden.
And the worst part? A large part of this issue begins right from childhood—thanks to poor dietary habits and minimal physical activity. ( I am sorry to say but “Parenting” is the major role in this.)
What is an Oil Board?
An Oil Board is essentially a visual awareness tool installed in common areas of schools to spread health-related messages—especially about the harmful effects of excessive oil and fat consumption. These can be:
- Static boards with eye-catching posters
- Digital displays rotating informative messages
- Simple charts, facts, and dos-and-don’ts regarding healthy eating habits
Inspiration from ‘Sugar Boards’
CBSE’s initiative of ‘Sugar Boards’ was launched earlier this year to highlight the dangers of excess sugar in our diets. The concept was well-received by schools, students, and parents alike. Building on that momentum, the ‘Oil Board’ takes the mission a step further, focusing now on fats and oils, another silent health villain.
Objective of the Oil Board Initiative
The primary goals of this initiative are to:
- Raise awareness about unhealthy oil consumption
- Encourage students and staff to make healthier food choices
- Create a positive environment for promoting lifelong fitness habits
By targeting lifestyle choices at an early age, the initiative aims to combat obesity from its roots.
Implementation Guidelines for Schools
CBSE has provided clear directions to schools for putting this into action. Here’s how:
Install Oil Boards in Common Areas
Schools are advised to place Oil Boards in cafeterias, lobbies, corridors, meeting rooms, and other public zones. The goal is simple—maximum visibility, maximum impact.
These boards can be customized as per a school’s setup and space. Schools are encouraged to involve students in designing these boards for better engagement.
“See What’s in the Lunch Box” – A Simple Yet Powerful Practice
One of the most effective and easy-to-implement ideas in schools is a daily practice called “See What’s in the Lunch Box”, especially in junior classes. The idea is simple—teachers take a few minutes every morning to check students’ tiffins, gently guiding them on what is healthy and what’s not. No junk food, no oily food—just clean, balanced meals. This method helps young learners build awareness from the beginning about what goes into their bodies. I have personally implemented this in my previous schools, and trust me, the impact was visible—both on children’s food habits and on parental cooperation.
Even better, schools can arrange for junior students to sit on the ground while eating, under the supervision of teachers. This not only creates a peaceful, mindful eating environment but also helps teachers guide and appreciate healthy eating habits. It encourages sharing, builds routine, and is incredibly beneficial for both physical posture and digestive health. Believe me, if done consistently, this small habit can make a big difference in your school’s health culture.
Use of Official Stationery
All official stationery—letterheads, envelopes, notepads, and folders—must include health messages related to oil and fat consumption. This consistent exposure is a psychological reinforcement tool, embedding healthy ideas in young minds over time.
Cafeteria & Meal Plan Reforms
Food served in school canteens should now include:
- More fruits and vegetables
- Low-fat meal options
- Restrictions on fried snacks and sugary drinks
Canteens can even display daily or weekly healthy menus, helping students and parents plan ahead.
Physical Activity Promotion
Oil intake is one part of the problem—lack of movement is the other. So, schools are also encouraged to:
- Promote stair usage over lifts
- Conduct short physical activity breaks during school hours
- Provide walking paths or outdoor activities during recess
It’s about making movement fun and a part of everyday school life.
Role of Students in the Initiative
CBSE has recommended that students be actively involved in this initiative as a part of experiential learning. This includes:
- Designing posters and charts for Oil Boards
- Conducting surveys on food habits
- Hosting awareness sessions or skits
When students create the content, they understand it better.
CBSE Official Circular
Establishing ‘Oil boards’ in school and promoting Healthy life style among students –reg.
FSSAI’s Contribution
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is providing all the support material schools need:
- Posters
- Videos
- Awareness campaigns
These can be accessed on FSSAI’s official YouTube channel, and queries can be directed to their email: iec@fssai.gov.in
Benefits of the Oil Board Initiative
Let’s look at the ripple effects this simple idea can create:
- Improved student health and focus
- Reduced childhood obesity
- Better food awareness among families
- Long-term cost-saving on health expenses
- Creation of a healthier, happier school ecosystem
And all this starts with just a few boards and some honest conversations.
Challenges in Implementation
Like any good initiative, there may be some bumps:
- Resistance from canteen vendors
- Lack of awareness among parents
- Budget issues for digital displays
But these can be overcome with proper communication, student involvement, and phased implementation.
Ideas to Make it Engaging
Schools can make it fun with:
- Health-themed poster competitions
- Morning announcements with health tips
- Parent-student workshops
- Reward points for healthy lunchboxes
Conclusion
CBSE’s ‘Oil Board’ initiative is not just about cutting fat—it’s about building a culture of mindfulness, health, and balance. Schools are not just centers of learning; they are the starting point of habits that last a lifetime. And with the growing concerns around lifestyle diseases, now is the perfect time to make a shift.
It’s a simple yet powerful move. And as educators, parents, and students—we all have a part to play.
