BMI Calculator (Indian ICMR & South Asian Standards)

Formula & Calculation Methodology

BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ (Height in meters)². Indian ICMR Normal: 18.5 - 22.9 | Overweight: 23.0 - 24.9 | Obese: >= 25.0.

Step-by-Step Worked Example

Height: 172 cm (1.72 m) | Weight: 68 kg

1. BMI = 68 ÷ (1.72 × 1.72) = 68 ÷ 2.9584 = 23.0 kg/m²
2. Category: Overweight (Indian Cutoff is 23.0, compared to Western 25.0)
3. Ideal Healthy Weight Range = 54.7 kg to 67.7 kg

Why India Uses Lower BMI Cutoffs than Western Countries

Research by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and WHO shows that South Asians tend to have higher visceral fat percentage and abdominal adiposity at lower BMI levels, increasing diabetes and cardiovascular risks at 23+ BMI.

Frequently Asked Questions