Delhi Active -Daily Active --An appeal

In current times, with rapid urbanization and globalization, the Indian population faces a looming threat of noncommunicable
or chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, stroke and chronic respiratory
diseases. Several risk factors which predispose a person to chronic diseases are lifestyle related and can easily be
modified by optimal levels of physical activity among other preventive measures. However, there has been a rapid
decrease in the level of physical activity among Indians, characterized primarily by sedentary lifestyles. There is
enough scientific evidence to show that engaging in even moderate levels of physical activity can considerably
reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.
Honorable Chief Minister/ Health Minister,
We – students, teachers and parents, of the city of Delhi recognize the importance of physical activity as an effective
health practice to combat various lifestyle related diseases. Physical inactivity is now the fourth largest cause of
death worldwide. Yet, the notion of regular physical activity as a part of our daily lives needs to be strengthened, so
that young and old alike, understand that simply a walk to the market or cycling around the neighbourhood can
contribute to a healthy life. Mainstreaming physical activity into our lives, undoubtedly, needs the involvement of
governments, civil society, media, residents welfare associations, educational institutions, local communities and
the private sector. We call for concerted and collective action to quell the dangers of physical inactivity and
sedentary lifestyles through the following recommendations:
lIn national policy: Formulating policies with the objective of increasing physical activity; urban and rural
planning efforts that support simple practices like walking, cycling etc; strengthening public infrastructure
and transportation; and equitable access to sports and recreation facilities.
lIn education: Educational and institutional policies that prioritize physical education curriculum;
competitive and non-competitive sports; and enhancing physical education skills.
lMulti-disciplinary partnerships for promoting the importance of physical activity
lEnhanced role of media in promoting regular physical activity
There is growing scientific evidence to support the benefits of physical activity in all facets of life. However, a
translation of knowledge to practice is imperative. We, the undersigned, urge all stakeholders to adopt our
recommendation so that a sustainable and healthy future is built for one and all.
Thanking you,
Respectfully,
Representative students, parents and teachers from schools and colleges who participated in the campaign to
promote physical activity among all citizens of Delhi, especially youth.
Partners: HRIDAY, Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) and World Heart Federation (WHF).