Vinod Bhat
New Delhi: Union World Diabetes Day was observed in Rome with enthusiastic participation from members of the Indian diaspora in Italy, representing diverse sections of society, including students, women, entrepreneurs and professionals from different walks of life. The participants joined the programme with great enthusiasm and expressed happiness and pride over India’s remarkable progress in science, technology, research and healthcare during the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. The gathering reflected the growing confidence of the Indian community in India’s scientific capabilities, healthcare initiatives and its expanding contribution to global scientific advancement.
The enthusiastic participation of the Indian diaspora, comprising students, women, entrepreneurs and members of the professional community, reflected the strong interest of Indians living abroad in India’s scientific and healthcare journey. The participants appreciated the country’s progress in scientific research, technological innovation and healthcare delivery under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, expressing pride in India’s growing global standing and its commitment to addressing important public health challenges such as diabetes.
Addressing the event organised at the Embassy of India in Rome on the occasion of World Diabetes Day, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr. Jitendra Singh, a noted diabetologist and Professor, called for greater emphasis on the prevention of diabetes, particularly among young people, stressing that lifestyle modification, healthy dietary habits, physical activity and control of obesity remain the fundamental measures for tackling the growing burden of the disease.
Dr. Jitendra Singh said that although several new groups of anti-diabetic drugs have emerged for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, the basic mantra of diabetes management continues to be lifestyle modification and obesity control.
Referring to this year’s theme, ‘Early Action on Diabetes’, the Minister said it captures the entire spirit of the management strategies required to check the rapid spread of diabetes in society. He emphasised that proactive early detection and timely action, followed by strict control of blood glucose levels through both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical measures, are essential to reducing the growing burden of diabetes.
Dr. Jitendra Singh expressed concern over the changing age profile of diabetes, noting that a disease previously associated largely with middle and old age is increasingly affecting young people in the prime of their lives. Diabetes at a younger age can have implications for an individual’s professional productivity and quality of life, while also requiring sustained attention to blood glucose control over a longer period to prevent damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, eyes and heart.
The Minister highlighted the close metabolic association between obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension and heart disease, stating that the Government of India has accorded priority to addressing these interconnected health concerns. He recalled that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has repeatedly emphasised the importance of controlling obesity.
Pointing to the particular vulnerability of Indians to central obesity, which is an independent risk factor for metabolic disorders, including diabetes mellitus, Dr. Jitendra Singh underlined the need to strengthen preventive healthcare and encourage healthier lifestyles.
The Minister also highlighted the integrated and holistic approach adopted by the Government of India since 2014 towards the management of metabolic disorders and lifestyle-related diseases. He referred to the establishment of the Ministry of Ayush, the introduction of wellness centres and the observance of the International Day of Yoga on June 21 every year, following the proposal of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, which was unanimously accepted by the United Nations. These initiatives, he said, contribute in different ways to reducing the burden of diabetes in society.
Dr. Jitendra Singh also referred to measures aimed at strengthening early detection and access to treatment, including provisions for mass screening for diabetes and initiatives under Ayushman Bharat to make healthcare more accessible and affordable.
Emphasising the importance of dietary discipline and physical activity, the Minister said that proper eating habits and an optimum level of physical activity are essential components of diabetes prevention and management. He also drew attention to physical and mental stress as contributing factors that require attention.
The Minister observed that India, with its large number of people living with diabetes, has considerable experience in managing the disease. Indian experts, he said, are well placed to share their experience and knowledge with counterparts in other countries and contribute to wider international efforts to address the challenge.
Dr. Jitendra Singh reiterated that the message of World Diabetes Day goes beyond treatment and calls for a stronger focus on prevention, early diagnosis and sustained management, particularly among the younger population.
The event was organised at the Embassy of India in Rome as part of the Minister’s official visit to Italy from November 11 to 15, 2026. The programme also included an interaction with members of the Indian community in Italy.
