Overview The Swastha Mysuru initiative was launched on December 5, 2025 , in Mysuru by the HH Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Foundation and Arogya World India Trust . This initiative aims to address the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases and illnesses in the region. The Government of Karnataka has partnered with the Foundation to promote awareness, preventive care, and healthy habits. Key Objectives Creating greater awareness of emerging lifestyle-related diseases. Promoting preventive care through early screening. Encouraging healthy habits among the population. Key Developments Government Collaboration The Government of Karnataka has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the HH Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Foundation to support the Swastha Mysuru campaign. This collaboration underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing public health challenges. Minister's Remarks Dinesh Gundu Rao , the Minister for Health and Family Welfare , emphasized that the initiative builds upon the success of a similar program in Bengaluru. He highlighted Mysuru's potential as the yoga capital of the world and its existing health-conscious population. He also stressed the importance of healthy and educated human resources for national development. Concerns Addressed The Minister cautioned that rapid economic growth has paradoxically worsened lifestyle diseases. He noted that southern India has higher incidents of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, blood pressure, and stress-related issues. He also expressed concern about children's exposure to unfiltered digital content. State's Ongoing Programs Mr. Rao highlighted the State’s ongoing Gruha Arogya program, under which over one crore people have been screened for diabetes, hypertension, cancers, and 14 other parameters. Early detection and free medicines are helping prevent disease progression. Campaign Details Partnerships Fifteen companies, hospitals, and civil society organizations have joined hands to promote healthier habits over the next two years . This collaborative effort aims to maximize the campaign's reach and impact. Focus Areas Expanding screening of NCDs. Encouraging physical activity. Promoting healthy eating. Strengthening mental health awareness. Enhancing adolescent health programs. Statements from Key Figures Pramoda Devi Wadiyar , chairperson of HH Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Foundation , said the Mysuru campaign builds on the success of ‘Healthy Bengaluru’ and aims to raise awareness about NCDs with community participation. Nalini Saligram , founder of Arogya World India Trust , warned that nearly 80% of people face diabetes or heart-related risks, while cancer incidences are rising quickly. She emphasized the urgency of addressing NCDs to prevent a major public health crisis. UPSC Relevance This initiative is relevant to GS2: Health and GS2: Government Policies and Interventions . It highlights the importance of addressing lifestyle diseases and the role of public-private partnerships in improving public health outcomes. The focus on preventive care and early screening aligns with the government's efforts to reduce the burden of NCDs. Important Facts Swastha Mysuru initiative launched on December 5, 2025 . Government of Karnataka signed an MoU with the HH Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Foundation . Dinesh Gundu Rao is the Minister for Health and Family Welfare . Gruha Arogya program has screened over one crore people. Fifteen organizations have partnered for the campaign.