Private sector's contribution to 'toxic mix of habits' substantial: Eco Survey
private sector's contribution to the 'toxic mix of habits' like social media, screen time and unhealthy food that can undermine public health, productivity and diminish India's economic potential is substantial, the Economic Survey said on Monday. The survey, tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament, also pointed out that 'privileging capital over labour is inimical to long-term corporate growth prospects', referring to reluctance shown by businesses to make investments citing lack of demand visibility.
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«For India's working-age population to be gainfully employed, they need skills and good health. Social media, screen time, sedentary habits, and unhealthy food are a lethal mix that can undermine public health and productivity and diminish India's economic potential,» it said.
Further, it said, «The private sector's contribution to this toxic mix of habits is substantial, and that is myopic.»
Stating that the emerging food consumption habits of Indians are not only unhealthy but also environmentally unsustainable, it said India's traditional lifestyle, food and recipes have shown how to live healthily and in harmony with nature and the environment for centuries.
«It makes commercial sense for Indian businesses to learn about and embrace them, for they have a global market waiting to be led rather than tapped,»
