Upon hearing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s urgent appeal to combat obesity in India, I felt a profound connection to his message. I have personally experienced the challenges associated with being overweight, including the societal stigma and the significant positive changes that sports and fitness can facilitate. My transformation — evolving from an overweight child to an Olympic athlete — has been driven by determination, a positive mindset, and a commitment to discipline. With these elements in place, it is possible to surmount any obstacle.

Obesity transcends mere physical appearance; it encompasses overall health and well-being. Currently, India is witnessing a concerning increase in obesity rates among individuals of all ages. The rise of childhood obesity is particularly alarming, as more young people adopt sedentary lifestyles characterized by fast food consumption, excessive screen time, and insufficient physical activity. This trend adversely impacts not only their physical health but also their mental well-being, resulting in diminished self-esteem and heightened susceptibility to diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.

For athletes, the implications of obesity are even more pronounced. Excess weight can hinder mobility, endurance, and overall performance. It can slow reaction times, impose additional stress on joints, and diminish stamina — all of which can be critical factors in determining success in competitive sports. Fortunately, engaging in sports and physical activities offers a powerful means to confront this challenge directly.

Exercise effectively eliminates excess calories, enhances metabolic function, improves the ratio of muscle to fat, and helps regulate appetite. For young athletes and fitness enthusiasts, engaging in sports fosters discipline, endurance, and mental resilience. Additionally, these activities contribute to the reduction of stress, anxiety, and depression, which are often associated with emotional eating and unhealthy weight gain.

Growing up in Chandra, I never envisioned that I would one day stand on the Olympic podium, adorned in the Indian tricolour. As a child, I was far from being perceived as an athlete. At the age of 13 or 14, I weighed approximately 75-76 kg. I was a chubby kid, frequently subjected to teasing and dissuaded from participating in sports. Those around me would say, “Neeraj, you are too heavy to run, too slow to compete, too big to fit into sports.”

Hearing such remarks was disheartening, yet I felt a strong desire to change. The pivotal moment arrived in 2011 when my uncle took me to a stadium in Panipat. That visit was transformative. It was there that I first grasped a javelin. The instant I threw it, I sensed a profound shift within myself. I had discovered my true passion.

Once I committed to javelin, I recognized the necessity of transforming my physique. Training at the stadium introduced me to structured workouts and disciplined fitness regimens. Initially, it was exceedingly difficult. Running even a few hundred meters left me breathless. I lacked both strength and endurance. However, I was determined not to allow my weight to define my identity.

I adhered to a rigorous training program that encompassed intense cardiovascular workouts, strength training, and flexibility exercises. My coach, Jaiveer Singh, was instrumental in my transformation, emphasizing the significance of persistence and consistency. Initially, my greatest challenge was my diet. I had to overhaul my eating habits entirely, substituting junk food with protein-dense meals, enhancing my consumption of fruits and vegetables, and reducing excess carbohydrates.

As the months progressed, I began to observe tangible results. My stamina increased, my speed improved, and most importantly, I started to shed weight. The excess fat is transformed into muscle. My body fat percentage decreased to 10%, and I felt lighter, stronger, and more self-assured. This transformation was not solely physical; it also had a profound mental impact. Each drop of sweat, every sore muscle, and every training session contributed to my resilience.

The message from Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi regarding the fight against obesity is particularly relevant today. It serves not only as a call for awareness but also as a call to action. I encourage every young individual in India to prioritize their health. Whether you are a student, a professional, or an aspiring athlete, your body is your most valuable asset. You need not aim to become an Olympian, but integrating daily physical activity into your life can yield significant benefits.

India possesses vast potential in the realm of sports, but to realize that potential, we must cultivate a healthier and fitter youth. Initiatives like Khelo India and other government programs are offering remarkable opportunities for young athletes to train and excel. By encouraging more young people to participate in organized sports, we can not only nurture more champions but also foster a nation of healthier individuals.

The battle against obesity transcends individual efforts; it necessitates a united approach. Educational institutions, communities, and families must motivate children to participate in physical activities. Organized sports training fosters discipline, consistency, and a goal-oriented mindset. As a nation, we must prioritize the accessibility of fitness equipment and sports facilities for all, ensuring that no child is hindered by their weight.

Fitness should not be viewed solely through the lens of appearance; it encompasses strength, endurance, and overall well-being. Begin today—whether by running, cycling, engaging in a sport, visiting the gym, or simply taking a walk. The essential factor is to remain active, maintain consistency, and not allow doubt to deter you. Let us advance the vision of Hon’ble Narendra Modi Ji and strive to make India a fitter, stronger, and healthier nation. Our goal should not merely be to combat obesity but to overcome it—one step, one throw, and one achievement at a time.

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