The state government issued such directives via a letter dated June 30, which was circulated among schools on Friday (Archive)Keeping in line with the recommendations of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), now schools in Maharashtra will mandatorily need to have ‘sugar boards’ in a move to combat the growing health crisis among school-children such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, dental issues among others.The state government issued such directives via a letter dated June 30, which was circulated among schools on Friday. According to guidelines issued by the NCPCR, these ‘sugar boards’ will serve as educational tools, providing students with vital information on recommended daily sugar intake, the sugar content of popular snacks and drinks, associated health risks, and healthier food alternatives.Schools have been instructed to place these boards prominently in cafeterias, classrooms, and common areas.Additionally, schools have been asked to incorporate sugar-awareness activities into their curriculum and collaborate with health professionals to educate children on nutrition.An official from the state school education department said, “Schools will not only have such informative boards in prominent places of the campus, they are also expected to conduct various awareness activities on the topic so that children are made aware of the serious implications of unhealthy eating habits.” The official emphasized that the initiative was declared by NCPCR in March, following which states were asked to implement it in schools.The NCPCR circular, dated March 6, urged all state education departments to mandate the creation of visual information displays—termed ‘sugar boards’—in schools. This initiative comes in response to alarming data showing a sharp rise in Type 2 diabetes among children, attributed largely to the excessive intake of sugary snacks, soft drinks, and processed foods commonly available within school premises.The circular further states that health experts warn that such dietary habits are not only contributing to diabetes but also increasing the risks of obesity, dental issues, and other metabolic disorders—ultimately affecting children’s academic performance and long-term well-being.Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd