Why the Economic Survey Is Warning About Junk Food and Social Media Use

Ahead of the Parliament Budget Session 2026, Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) V Anantha Nageswaran sparked discussion by highlighting issues that are rarely associated with economic policy. While briefing the media on the Economic Survey 2025-26, he drew attention to rising junk food consumption, obesity, excessive screen time, and social media use, particularly among children and young adults.

At first glance, these concerns may appear more social or public-health related than economic. However, the government’s rationale is clear: India’s long-term economic growth is closely tied to the physical, mental, and emotional health of its working-age population.

Where Do These References Appear in the Economic Survey?

The observations on junk food, obesity, and digital behaviour are part of the “Strengthening Healthcare” chapter in the Economic Survey Highlights, released by the Department of Economic Affairs.

The Survey argues that economic outcomes cannot be separated from population health. Productivity, labour participation, and the ability to capitalise on India’s demographic dividend all depend on a workforce that is physically fit and mentally resilient.

Health as an Economic Growth Factor

While addressing the media, Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) V Anantha Nageswaran emphasised that India’s growth prospects could be undermined if lifestyle-related health risks continue unchecked. According to the Survey, rising obesity, poor diets, and digital addiction pose a long-term threat to productivity and workforce efficiency.

India’s demographic advantage—its young population—can only translate into sustained growth if the population remains healthy through its prime working years.

Why Is the Chief Economist Flagging Rising Junk Food Consumption?

Rising Obesity Trends in India

Using data from National Family Health Survey-4 (NFHS-4), the Economic Survey highlights a steady increase in overweight and obesity levels among both adults and adolescents.

• Over one in five Indian adults is now either overweight or obese.

• Urban areas report significantly higher prevalence.

• The issue is no longer confined to affluent households and is spreading across income groups and age categories.

Diet and Lifestyle Shifts

The Survey links this trend to:

• Higher consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs)

• Increased sugar intake

• Sedentary lifestyles and reduced physical activity

It warns that obesity should not be seen merely as a lifestyle concern. Instead, it represents a serious economic challenge, increasing the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and productivity losses during prime working years.

What the CEA Said on Health and Productivity

Addressing journalists, Nageswaran stated:

"This time, we are focussing not only on mental health but also on physical health,"

He further underlined the interdependence of wellbeing dimensions, adding:

"All three — physical, mental and emotional health — are necessary if India wants to fully benefit from its young population."

Policy Suggestions on Obesity and Food Marketing

Marketing Restrictions on Ultra-Processed Foods

Under the chapter “Tackling the Obesity Challenge”, the Survey proposes a possible regulatory approach:

"The option of a marketing ban on UPFs (ultra-processed foods) from 0600 hours to 2300 hours for all media, and enforcing restrictions on the marketing of infant and toddler milk and beverages, could be explored."

Push for Better Food Labelling

Another key recommendation is improved food labelling. The Survey calls for clearer and more transparent disclosures to help consumers make informed choices.

Importantly, the Survey stresses that obesity cannot be tackled through government action alone. Cooperation from the private sector and increased public awareness are equally critical. As the CEA noted, long-term behavioural change requires shared responsibility.

What Does the Economic Survey Say About Social Media Use?

Digital Addiction and Mental Health Risks

The Strengthening Healthcare chapter also revisits concerns over “digital addiction and excessive social media use”, especially among adolescents and young adults.

Drawing on NFHS data and behavioural studies, the Survey highlights that prolonged screen time combined with constant social comparison on digital platforms is associated with:

• Anxiety

• Depressive symptoms

• Emotional distress

Policy Debate on Social Media Restrictions

The issue has already entered the policy space, with states like Andhra Pradesh and Goa considering restrictions on social media access for children under 16 years.

However, the Economic Survey does not advocate blanket bans. Instead, it emphasises the importance of informed decision-making by families and individuals, supported by awareness and guidance.

A ‘Silent Scooch’ on India’s Workforce

Nageswaran warned that excessive screen exposure, low physical activity, and unhealthy diets together:

"raise the risk of anxiety and suicidal thoughts among adolescents and early working-age populations".

He described this trend as a "silent scooch" affecting India’s future workforce—one that could quietly undermine the country’s long-term economic ambitions if ignored.

Why This Matters Economically

Unlike earlier editions that focused more narrowly on mental health, the Economic Survey 2025-26 adopts a broader framework. It places physical health, lifestyle choices, and digital habits squarely within the economic narrative.

The message is clear: sustained economic growth depends not just on capital expenditure, reforms, or skills—but on healthy individuals who can participate productively in the economy over decades.

Conclusion: Health Is Now Central to Economic Policy

The Economic Survey’s discussion on junk food consumption and social media use signals an important shift in economic thinking. By integrating lifestyle and health risks into economic analysis, the government acknowledges that human capital is India’s most valuable asset.

As India prepares for the Union Budget 2026-27, the Survey serves as a reminder that long-term growth ambitions will only be realised if economic policy is aligned with public health, behavioural awareness, and preventive care.