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Free tool · Indian cut-offs
For adults aged 18 and over. It isn't meant for pregnancy, or for under-18s, whose BMI is read on age charts.
Written by the Femwise editorial team · Updated 7 October 2026 · Our reviewers check the medical facts on this page; they don't review or endorse our products.
Quick answer
For Indian adults, a healthy BMI is 18.5 to 22.9. Indian guidelines use lower cut-offs than the international 25 and 30 because, at the same BMI, Indians tend to carry more body fat, especially around the waist. In 2025 the India Obesity Commission proposed that a BMI above 23 counts as obesity, staged by waist size and health.
BMI
Earlier Indian guidelines (2009)
2025 update
Below 18.5
Underweight
Underweight
18.5 to 22.9
Normal
Normal
23 to 24.9
Overweight
Stage 1 obesity if waist and health are fine; stage 2 obesity if the waist is large and a related health problem is present
25 and above
Obesity
The same two stages, judged by a doctor
Stand straight and breathe out gently. Measure halfway between your lowest rib and the top of your hip bone, keeping the tape level and snug but not tight. For Indian women, 80 cm (about 31.5 inches) or more, or a waist more than half your height, points to extra fat around the tummy.
Questions
What is a healthy BMI for Indian women?
18.5 to 22.9. Indian guidelines start counting extra body fat at 23, lower than the international cut-off of 25.
Why are the Indian cut-offs lower?
At the same BMI, Asian Indians tend to have more body fat, more of it around the waist, and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes than many other groups.
I have PCOS (now called PMOS) and a normal BMI. Does weight still matter?
PCOS can affect blood sugar at any weight, so your waist size and blood tests tell your doctor more than BMI alone.
Is BMI accurate?
It's a quick screen. It doesn't separate muscle from fat or show where fat sits, which is why the waist check helps.
Sources
· Revised definition of obesity in Asian Indians living in India, Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome, 2025
For general information; it doesn't replace advice from your own doctor. Medical disclaimer
