World Breastfeeding Week celebrated, Creche Centre opened at RIMS
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 07 2024: As observed across the globe, BABINA Hospital celebrated World Breastfeeding Week 2024 at its training hall in Khabeisoi, Sajiwa Jail Road on Wednesday with the aims to inform, anchor, engage and galvanize action on breastfeeding and related issues.

According to a release issued by Babina Hospital, breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival, yet currently, fewer than half of infants under six months old are exclusively breastfed.

The event was organised by Breastfeeding Promotion Alliance of Manipur (BPAM), a conglomerate of Pediatric Association Manipur (PAM), Indian Medical Association (IMA), Manipur State Branch, Imphal Obstetric & Gynaecological Society (IOGS), and the Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI), Manipur State Branch.

It was graced by Dr Th Dhabali, chairman and managing director of BABINA Hospital; Dr A Ibotombi Sharma, president of BPAM and Medical Superintendent of Raj Medicity; Dr Shyamkumar Laishram, Medical Superintendent, BABINA Hospital; and Dr Basanta Longjam, honorary secretary, PAM as presidium members.

Dr L Radhapyari, Senior Resident at RIMS and Dr Kh Ratankumar, managing director of Mother's Care Children Hospital and National Trainer on Infant and Young Child Feeding (BPNI) also attended the event as a resource person and special guest respectively.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Th Dhabali highlighted the extended nine-day observance of World Breastfeeding Week in Manipur, emphasizing the honor of hosting the event at BABINA Hospital.

He underscored the importance of breastfeeding for babies, mothers, and society and noted the declining trend in early and exclusive breastfeeding in Manipur compared to national levels.

He also called for reversing this trend by spreading awareness.

Dr A Ibotombi Sharma acknowledged BPAM's efforts to raise breastfeeding awareness in Manipur, contributing to the state's success in breastfeeding rates despite its decline over the years.

Dr Shyamkumar Laishram pointed out the increasing trend of breastfeeding in the United States due to the rise in non-communicable diseases.

He also mentioned that BABINA Hospital will implement the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) to support breastfeeding practices.

Dr Basanta Longjam emphasized that the event serves as a reminder of the importance and benefits of breastfeeding and advocated for breastfeeding rooms in all hospitals.

Kh Jayanta, general manager of BABINA Hospital, delivered the vote of thanks.

Over 45 participants, including staff and doctors from BABINA Hospital, attended the event.

RIMS

The weeklong observance of World Breastfeeding Week 2024 on the theme "Closing the gap: Breastfeeding support for all" concluded today at Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Imphal.

Additionally, a Creche Centre was opened at RIMS, Imphal.

The event was organised by RIMS, Imphal in collaboration with BPAM at Creche Centre near New Guest House, RIMS, Imphal, said a release issued by RIMS.

It was graced by Prof G Sunil Kumar Sharma, Director, RIMS, Imphal; Prof N Sanjib Singh, Medical Superintendent, RIMS Hospital, Imphal; Dr James Elangbam, secretary, BPAM; and Dr Khuraijam Ranjana Devi, Head, Department of Microbiology, RIMS, Imphal as presidium members.

Prof N Kameshore, Head, Department of Paediatrics, JNIMS, Imphal also attended the event as a technical expert.

Speaking on the occasion, Prof G Sunil Kumar said that the Government of India has encouraged every institute to have a better location and center where mothers can closely associate with their children.

Stating that the management of RIMS has worked very hard to open a Creche Centre, the Director assured to maintain the Creche Centre to the highest level with best facility available as required.

He also asserted that requirements for staff will be analysed for the beginning stage and will later support and expand the facility.

Further, the Director highlighted the importance of breastfeeding and its benefits to the mother and child.

S Sarat Singh, CAO/FA, RIMS, Imphal along with Principal of Dental College, Principal of College of Nursing, RIMS, Imphal, HODs, nursing officials, faculties and staff of RIMS, Imphal also took part in the programme.

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