'Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start': World Breastfeeding Week begins in Imphal
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 01 2026: World Breastfeeding Week 2026 was inaugurated today at two major hospitals in Imphal under the common theme "Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works", with calls to protect, promote and support breastfeeding.

At Raj Medicity Hospital, North AOC, the Breast Feeding Promotion Alliance of Manipur (BPAM) launched the week-long observance from August 1-7 at the 8th Floor Multipurpose Hall.

Dr Shyamkumar Laishram, Medical Superintendent, Babina Hospital, attended as chief guest.

Dr James Elangbam, Secretary, BPAM and Founder & MD, Acme Fertility and Healthcare Centre, and Prof Th Nandarani, National Vice President, TNAI, North East Region, were guests of honour.

Dr Aribam Ibotombi Sharma, President, BPAM, presided.

Dr Pukhrambam Ringco Meitei, Assistant Medical Superintendent, Raj Medicity, reaffirmed the hospital's commitment to evidencebased maternal and child healthcare.

Speakers urged healthcare workers, families and communities to support mothers to initiate breastfeeding within one hour of birth, practice exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and continue with complementary feeding.

Dr Laishram Cindy, Senior Resident, Pediatrics, JNIMS, in the scientific session, highlighted evidence on breastfeeding's role in reducing neonatal mortality, improving immunity and supporting long-term physical and cognitive development.

The programme saw participation from members of BPAM, TNAI Manipur, doctors, nurses and students.

BPAM will conduct awareness and outreach activities across the State during the week.

Simultaneously, World Breastfeeding Week was also observed at JNIMS Paediatric OPD, organised by Trained Nurses Association of India, Manipur State Branch, and the Department of Paediatrics, JNIMS.

JNIMS Medical Superintendent Dr Th Lokeshwar said breastfed infants gain health benefits while nursing mothers are also protected from illnesses including breast cancer.

He noted mother's milk contains hormones and antibodies that boost immunity and strengthen the mother-child bond, and urged timely breastfeeding.

He added that awareness has now replaced the past practice of other women feeding newborns.

TNAI Manipur General Secretary L Sanjarani said the observance aims to spread awareness on breastfeeding benefits.

A photo exhibition on breastfeeding is being held at Paediatric OPD during the week.

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