CBSE wants schools to cut sugar. But Zerodha's Nithin Kamath has an urgent question for parents

Sugar has quietly become one of the biggest threats to children’s health, linked not only to rising obesity rates but also to a shocking spike in Type 2 diabetes among kids, a condition once seen primarily in adults. As sugar sneaks its way into everything from soft drinks to snack boxes, health experts and educators alike are now ringing the alarm. And this time, India’s largest school board, CBSE, is taking action. But Zerodha’s Nithin Kamath asks one important question. How to make parents care about this?

In a recent circular, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has urged all its affiliated schools to take proactive steps to reduce sugar consumption among students. Schools have been directed to establish ‘Sugar Boards’—information zones that display key facts about the dangers of excessive sugar intake, the recommended daily limit, hidden sugar content in common snacks and drinks, and suggestions for healthier dietary choices. CBSE has also asked schools to organise awareness workshops and seminars, aiming to create a long-term impact on student health and food habits.


Reacting to the move, Zerodha co-founder Nithin Kamath praised the step, calling it “a step in the right direction.” In a tweet, he credited food awareness advocate Food Pharmer, Revant Himatsingka, for highlighting the circular and raised a critical next question: “Now to figure out how to get parents to care about it. How to reduce sodas, coffee/tea (majority of it is mostly sugar), malted drinks, chocolates, sweets, etc.”

CBSE tells schools to establish Sugar Boards to monitor and reduce sugar. This is a step in the right direction. Thanks @foodpharmer2 for sharing.

Now to figure out how to get parents to care about it. How to reduce sodas, coffee/tea (majority of it is mostly sugar), malted… pic.twitter.com/Pala0IpOf2

— Nithin Kamath (@Nithin0dha) May 17, 2025

Netizens react
The initiative has struck a chord online, with netizens applauding CBSE’s efforts while also emphasizing the need for family involvement. One user called it “an excellent step in the right direction,” while another wrote, “Tackling sugar at school is vital. Getting parents on board is the crucial next step for lasting impact.”


Many responses echoed Kamath’s sentiment—that real change must go beyond the classroom. One user suggested engaging parents through weekly health bulletins, fun no-sugar family challenges, or simple rewards for healthier lunchboxes. “Sugar awareness needs to be a team effort—kids, teachers, and parents all in,” they said. Another comment summed up the collective concern perfectly: “This is a bold and much-needed move. Sugar has quietly become the new smoking. But unless parents get involved, it’s like fixing a leaking tap while leaving the main pipe open.”