Ajinkya Rahane, veteran Indian cricketer and current skipper of Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2025, has taken on a new off-field role—promoting healthier eating habits as part of a government-backed awareness campaign under the National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO).
In collaboration with the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Rahane is urging citizens to cut down their edible oil intake by 10%, advocating it as a step toward personal health and national self-reliance.
“The message is simple but powerful: Let’s try to reduce our edible oil consumption by just 10%. Not just for ourselves but for our families, and for the country,” Rahane posted on X (formerly Twitter).
Why This Matters:
India currently consumes an average of 20 kg of edible oil per person annually, which is significantly higher than the global healthy standard. This leads to India importing a massive amount of edible oil—worth nearly ₹80,000 crore each year. The campaign aims to not only improve public health but also cut import dependency and boost domestic oilseed production.
Rahane’s Personal Connection:
Rahane shared that his awareness of dietary choices stems from his cricketing career.
“As an athlete, I’ve always been mindful of what I eat. Small changes in our daily habits can make a big difference. This campaign is a reminder that good health starts at home,” he said.
He further noted his perspective as a parent, emphasizing the importance of setting the right example for future generations.
“As a father, I think about the habits we’re passing on. If we can make healthier choices today, we’re setting up a stronger tomorrow.”
The Bigger Picture:
Rahane’s initiative is aligned with the government’s long-term goal of creating a health-conscious and economically resilient India. By involving public figures like him, the campaign is leveraging sports stars’ influence to reach a wider audience.
The announcement comes even as Rahane balances his cricketing responsibilities with KKR, who are set to face Rajasthan Royals in a high-stakes clash this Sunday.
