International Diabetes Federation IDF Names Dr.R.M.Anjana as Chair — To Spearhead Global ‘ACTIVE’ Physical Activity Mission!
Chennai, December 2, 2025: The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) has appointed Dr. R. M. Anjana, Managing Director of Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre and President of the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), as Chair of the IDF Working Group on Physical Activity and leader of the IDF Global ‘ACTIVE’ Initiative, a program aimed at boosting physical activity worldwide.
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| (L to R) Dr. V. Mohan, Chairman of Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre and MDRF; Dr.R.M.Anjana, Managing Director of Dr.Mohan's Diabetes Specialities Centre and President of the MDRF; Prof. Peter Schwarz, IDF President |
In her new role, Dr. Anjana will guide a global consortium with experts from all IDF regions, ensuring collaboration across countries and diverse communities. Physical inactivity—affecting 81% of adolescents and 27.5% of adults—is a major contributor to diabetes and other noncommunicable diseases. The IDF ACTIVE Initiative will focus on practical, community-based programs to increase movement and fitness levels across populations.
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Prof. Peter Schwarz, IDF President, said that increasing physical activity is one of the most effective ways to prevent diabetes and praised Dr. Anjana’s leadership in translating global evidence into community-driven action.
Dr. R. M. Anjana, Managing Director of Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre and President of the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF)
Dr. R. M. Anjana expressed her honour in leading the initiative, emphasizing the need for bold, actionable strategies that inspire people of all ages to adopt active lifestyles. She highlighted the importance of global collaboration in reducing the burden of chronic diseases.
Dr. V. Mohan, Chairman of Dr. Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre and MDRF, described the appointment as a proud moment for India, noting Dr. Anjana’s significant contributions to physical activity research and community health.
The event also highlighted key components of the IDF ACTIVE Initiative, including innovative fitness challenges for schools, workplaces, and communities, fitness scoring tools, and the recognition of fitness ambassadors. The initiative aims to combine evidence, policy, and community engagement to help people move more and stay fit.
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