World Breastfeeding Week 2025 launched
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 12 2025: The State level launching programme of World Breastfeeding Week 2025 was held today at IMA Hall, Lamphelpat under the theme "Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems" .

The event was jointly organised by the Directorate of Health Services, Manipur and State Health Society, National Health Mission Manipur.

At the event, three lactating mothers were honoured with simple gifts.

Speaking as the chief guest, Dr Chambo Gonmei, Director, Health Services, advised mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies until they are six months old to ensure their good health.

Saying that breastmilk is the ideal source of nutrition for babies for the first six months of their lives, the Health Director said that it contains all the necessary nutrients, including vitamins and minerals and builds their immunity.

Pointing out that in Manipur babies are usually introduced to rice very early on, he advised people to stop this practice and introduce supplementary food to babies only after 6 months.

Stressing the importance of World Breastfeeding Week, he said that the programme was organised to spread awareness among mothers on how to nurture and raise their babies.

Right after delivery, he advised the new-borns to be fed with "colostrum", which is the first form of breastmilk that is released by the mother's mammary glands after giving birth.

He said that it is nutrient-dense, high in antibodies and antioxidants to build a newborn baby's immune system.

On another note, he shared that the State's mortality rate has dropped down to 4, which means that on average, the number of infant deaths per 1000 live births is 4 .

Meanwhile, paediatrician Dr Kh John provided valuable information on the proper ways to breastfeed newborns.

The event was presided over by Dr N Hemantakumar, Director, Family Welfare Services with Dr Ningthoujam Bino Singh, Additional Director, Health Services as the guest of honour.

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