Nourishing the Next Generation: World Breastfeeding Week Awareness Programme

Breastfeeding remains one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to protect a child's health and future. In observance of World Breastfeeding Week, the Surokhit Shaishav Project organised an awareness programme at the ICDS Centre in Itinda village on 5th August 2026, bringing together mothers, young children, and key community stakeholders for a session dedicated to maternal and infant health.

The programme was graced by Basirhat-1 Block’s Child Development Officer, Srirupa Banerjee, as chief guest, along with Anganwadi workers, health workers, and NGO workers from Itinda village. Mothers attended with their small children, creating an intimate setting for open discussion on breastfeeding practices.

Facilitators guided mothers through the significance of World Breastfeeding Week and the wide-ranging benefits of breastfeeding for both baby and mother. Discussions covered the importance of initiating breastfeeding within the first hour of birth, the protective value of colostrum, and the recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months without water or other foods. The session also addressed the importance of continuing breastfeeding up to two years or beyond.

Common myths were directly addressed, including whether children should be given water during summer months, what mothers can do if their milk supply is low, and whether breastfeeding is safe during illness. Guidance was also shared on the safe storage and use of expressed breast milk. To reinforce learning in an engaging way, a quiz competition was held for mothers on common misconceptions and truths surrounding breastfeeding, encouraging active participation and lasting retention of key messages.

Through initiatives such as this, the Surokhit Shaishav Project continues to strengthen maternal and child health awareness at the grassroots level, empowering mothers with accurate knowledge to give their children the healthiest possible start in life.

"Every drop of breast milk, a step toward a healthier tomorrow."

 

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