Odisha Marks World Breastfeeding Week 2025 with Call for Collective Support and Inclusion

Bhubaneswar: The State-Level celebration of World Breastfeeding Week 2025 was held today at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre in Bhubaneswar, with a strong emphasis on building sustainable support systems to promote and prioritize breastfeeding. Organized by the Department of Women and Child Development (WCD), Government of Odisha, the event brought together senior officials, medical experts, and development partners to reaffirm the state’s commitment to maternal and child health.

This year’s global theme — “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support System” — shaped the day’s discussions, activities, and key announcements.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who graced the event as Chief Guest, underscored the emotional and health benefits of breastfeeding, describing it as a bond that brings the child closer to the mother’s heart. She stressed that exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months not only strengthens infant immunity but also significantly reduces risks of breast and ovarian cancers in mothers.

In a landmark move to support lactating women, the Deputy Chief Minister virtually inaugurated Odisha’s first public Breastfeeding Room at the Odisha State Commission for Women Office. She called upon both public and private institutions across the state to set up similar breastfeeding spaces to ensure dignity and comfort for working mothers.

Highlighting the importance of grassroots engagement, Parida urged citizens to participate actively in the ongoing “Aas Bulijiba Anganwadi” (Let’s Visit Anganwadi) campaign being held from August 1 to 15, aimed at encouraging community ownership and support for child development centres. She described Anganwadis as “a second home for children” and emphasized the need for infrastructural and service delivery upgrades.

The event also witnessed the official launch of “Lok Kalyan”, an online registration platform for NGOs, designed by the Odisha State Social Welfare Board (OSSWB) under the WCD Department. The initiative is expected to enhance transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability in the sector.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Aditya Mahapatra, Additional Director from the Health & Family Welfare Department, spoke about the challenges posed by modern-day myths and misconceptions surrounding breastfeeding. He emphasized that promoting breastfeeding is a shared responsibility of families, communities, and government, urging the creation of stress-free environments and support systems for lactating women.

Shubha Sharma, Principal Secretary, WCD, highlighted the range of government schemes and entitlements for pregnant and lactating mothers and young children. She stressed the importance of their effective implementation at the field level.