The World Obesity Atlas 2026 shows that India, along with China and the US, accounts for a larger share of the global burden, showing that the country is now facing both undernutrition and rising obesity among children.It comes amid a sharp global increase in childhood obesity, which has increased from about 4% in 1975 to nearly 20% in recent years. For the first time, more children worldwide are expected to be obese than underweight, signaling a major shift in health trends. It also warned that although many countries have introduced measures to tackle childhood obesity, progress is not keeping up with the scale of the problem, so stronger action is needed on food regulation, physical activity and access to care.Experts said that this is not just a matter of show, but a matter of serious health concern. Dr Rajesh Khadgawat, Professor, Department of Endocrinology, AIIMS said, “Childhood obesity is on the rise due to an imbalance between diet and physical activity, with children eating more calories and moving less. This is not a cosmetic issue but a long-term risk disease like diabetes, heart disease and other lifestyle conditions.”This increase is being driven by easier access to calorie-dense foods, sugary drinks and ultra-processed products, as well as a decline in physical activity and an increase in screen time. Urban lifestyle, reduction in outdoor play spaces and increasing dependence on digital devices are worsening this trend.This trend is also visible in young children, with even children under five years of age increasing in excess weight. Experts warn that this often continues into adulthood, increasing long-term risks and increasing the future burden of non-communicable diseases.