New Initiative Targets High Blood Pressure by Cutting Everyday Salt Use
Bengaluru, 22 September – In a decisive move to combat hypertension and other cardiovascular disorders, Karnataka’s Health Minister U.T. Khadar unveiled a new state‑wide scheme to trim salt intake across the population. The initiative, part of the Karnataka State Multi‑Sectoral Action Plan, was presented at a technical advisory group meeting held within the legislative precinct.
The programme aligns with India’s pledge to achieve a 30 percent reduction in average salt consumption by 2030, echoing the World Health Organization’s recommendation of less than five grams per day per person. Presently, Indian adults consume between eight and eleven grams of salt daily, a figure that doubles the WHO limit.
Officials highlighted the strong correlation between excessive sodium intake, high blood pressure, and the heightened risk of stroke and heart disease. To address this, the government is establishing a state steering committee that will synchronize efforts of health, nutrition, research and civil‑society stakeholders.
Karnataka has already enacted policies to curb HFSS (high‑fat, sugar, salt) foods. The new action plan expands these efforts, focusing on three arenas: domestic cooking, meals purchased outside the home, and processed or packaged foods.
Proposed measures comprise public education to reduce discretionary salt, promotion of low‑sodium alternatives, encouragement for manufacturers to lower salt content in processed items, strengthened dietary counselling through health services, and support for research on low‑sodium, potassium‑rich salts.
A technical advisory group, led by the Vice‑Chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, will provide scientific guidance and monitor implementation. Members from the Health and Family Welfare Department, Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, NIMHANS, academic nutrition institutions and public‑health NGOs will contribute expertise.
The comprehensive strategy aims to reshape dietary habits, lower diet‑related risk factors and improve overall cardiovascular health for Karnataka’s residents.