On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, Telangana Minister Seethakka stated that initiation of breastfeeding within one hour of birth and exclusive breastfeeding for six months lays a strong foundation for a child’s healthy development. She directed the launch of village-to-village awareness campaigns.
Warangal: On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week (August 1-7), Danasri Anasuya Seethakka, Minister of Panchayat Raj, Rural Development, Rural Water Supply, and Women and Child Welfare, Government of Telangana, urged mothers to adopt the correct breastfeeding method for their infants. She stated that breastfeeding is not only a means of nourishing a child, but also the foundation for a healthy, strong, and secure future. On this occasion, the Minister also urged health workers and the community to play an active role in promoting maternal and child health.
Breast milk is the safest and most nutritious food for the baby
Seethakka stated that every newborn should be initiated into breastfeeding within the first hour of birth. According to her, breast milk is the safest, cleanest, and most complete natural food for the baby, providing complete nutrition. The essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune-boosting components present in breast milk play a crucial role in protecting the newborn from early infections and many serious diseases.
He stated that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life. During this period, there is no need to introduce water, honey, cow’s milk, or other foods, as breast milk alone is capable of meeting all the baby’s nutritional needs.
Continue breastfeeding with complementary foods after six months.
The Minister advised mothers to start supplementary foods appropriate for their infants after six months, while continuing to breastfeed. He stated that continued breastfeeding for at least one year, and longer if possible, better supports the child’s physical, mental, and emotional development. Health experts also agree that prolonged breastfeeding plays a crucial role in boosting children’s immunity, reducing the risk of malnutrition, and ensuring healthy growth.
Maternal nutrition is equally important.
Sitakka stated that breastfeeding alone is not sufficient for a healthy baby; a balanced and nutritious diet is also essential. She explained that the quality of a mother’s diet directly impacts the quality of breast milk. If the mother consumes adequate nutrition, the baby also receives better nutrients, which strengthens their development and immune system. She advised pregnant and lactating women to consume a balanced diet, including adequate water, green vegetables, fruits, pulses, milk, and a protein-rich diet.
Awareness campaigns to be conducted in villages
During World Breastfeeding Week, the Minister directed Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and health department officials to conduct special awareness campaigns in villages and communities. These campaigns will educate pregnant women, new mothers, and families about the scientific benefits and correct methods of breastfeeding. She stated that sometimes, due to lack of information or social misconceptions, mothers are unable to initiate breastfeeding on time. In such situations, it is the responsibility of health workers to provide correct information and guide families and boost mothers’ confidence.
Family and society also play an important role.
Sitakka stated that successful breastfeeding is not solely the mother’s responsibility; the support of the entire family and society is equally important. She appealed to family members to provide mental and physical support to new mothers so that they can care for their babies without any stress. She also stated that it is society’s collective responsibility to create a conducive environment for breastfeeding women in workplaces and public places.
Objective of World Breastfeeding Week
World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated every year between August 1st and 7th. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding, provide mothers with accurate information, and unite communities, health institutions, and governments to improve child health. This campaign is considered an important initiative towards improving maternal and child health worldwide. Health experts believe that if more mothers breastfeed for the recommended duration, problems like infant mortality and malnutrition can be significantly reduced.
Appeal for Public Participation
Wishing all mothers a Happy World Breastfeeding Week, Minister Seethakka appealed to citizens to actively participate in this campaign. She stated that only by spreading awareness and sharing accurate information can the future generation be assured of a healthy and secure future. She also reiterated that the government prioritizes maternal and child health and is continuously working for the welfare of women and children through various health and nutrition programs.