World Breastfeeding Week begins

World Breastfeeding Week is an annual global event that focuses on promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding. This observance aims to create awareness about the significant health benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child, endorse policies and schemes that encourage the practice, and address any challenges faced during this process. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) have jointly emphasized the crucial role of breastfeeding in providing optimal nutrition and immune protection for infants, and thus this week is dedicated to creating an environment that empowers mothers to practice exclusive breastfeeding.

The history of World Breastfeeding Week dates back to 1991 when a collective effort was initiated by WHO, UNICEF, and the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) to protect, promote, and support breastfeeding across the world. In India, a country with rich cultural diversity, breastfeeding holds significant importance. Exclusive breastfeeding rate for the first six months in India stands at 55% as per the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4). To enhance this rate and disseminate knowledge on the importance of breastfeeding practices, India has initiated various programs and schemes such as the Mother's Absolute Affection (MAA) program and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY).

During World Breastfeeding Week, India observes numerous activities, campaigns, and workshops conducted by government institutions, NGOs, and healthcare organizations. These initiatives aim at creating a supportive environment for mothers, spreading awareness, addressing challenges, and breaking myths and misconceptions surrounding breastfeeding practices. World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated across the globe, including India, from the 1st to 7th of August every year, showcasing the joint commitment of governments and organizations worldwide in ensuring the promotion and inculcation of healthy breastfeeding practices.