India is in the grip of a rising obesity crisis. More than 80 million Indians suffer from obesity, and about 1 in 4 adults are now classified as overweight or obesity (NFHS-5). It is not just about the image of the body – this is a public health emergency.

Obesity type 2 is increasing diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, fatty liver, sleep apnea and even cancer rates. Dangerous, these conditions are now emerging in young adults and adolescents, developing diseases related to lifestyle seen only at a middle age only.

Medicinal successes like Maunzaro (Tirzepatide)-a dual-agonist injected in India in 2025 with new hope. Clinical studies have shown that such drugs can reduce body weight by 15–20%, often reverse or delay severe metabolic diseases.

But access is a serious barrier, and such agents require careful medical monitoring.

In India, the price of Mungaro is between Rs 14,000 – Rs 25,000 per month based on dosage. It is only available through private healthcare and not covered by most insurance schemes. Unlike countries such as the UK, it makes a completely out-off-pocket, where the NHS programs funded by the government cover it for eligible patients. In the US, the coverage varies from the insurer, and many still exclude weight loss drugs, classifying them as non-essentials.

It keeps these treatments out of access to a large part of Indians-especially in mid and lower income groups, which are most unsafe for obesity related health risks.
This is why lifestyle management is the cornerstone of any permanent obesity solution as a whole.

India is lucky for a rich food inheritance, cheap, protein- and filled with fiber-rich options- such as lentils, legumes, yogurt, cheese, nuts, millets, and seasonal vegetables- which naturally support weight control. Like balanced diet Dal-roti-vegetableWhen regular agitation is coupled by mind and coupled, many modern diet plans can rival rival.

The real issue is not availability-it is the loss of awareness, culture and stability in the face of ultra-like foods and sedentary routines.

Obesity is not only about individual habits-it is shaped by systemic forces: poor urban planning, lack of nutrition in school food, tireless junk food marketing and desk-bound work culture. Medicines such as Mounjaro can help individuals take control, but they alone cannot cure social habits, and their long -term adverse effects are uncertain.

So, can weight loss drugs solve India’s obesity epidemic?

Probably not on its own. But when used responsibly – continuous lifestyle changes, public awareness and policy reforms – they can play a meaningful role. As a physician, I have seen that they provide a lifeline to struggling patients – but only when a fundamental mentality is combined with the innings.

Finally, a word of caution: there is a risk with increasing popularity. The increasing number of patients is changing without supervision, often without supervision, due to indiscriminate or cosmetic reasons of these drugs. This is dangerous.

These are medical intervention, not shortcuts. Their use should be directed by clinical requirement, not consumer demand.

India does not only require more tips – it requires a movement towards health: a plate, a walk, a policy at a time. In that movement, weight loss drugs are a tool, not the answer.

(Disclaimer: This is a writer’s article. The thoughts and opinions expressed by the doctor are their independent professional decisions, and we do not take any responsibility for the accuracy of their ideas. It should not be considered as an alternative to the doctor’s advice. Please consult your treatment doctor for more information.)