World Breastfeeding Week 2026
Experts call for family & workplace support for breastfeeding mothers
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, August 05 2026: World Breastfeeding Week 2026 was observed at multiple venues in Imphal today under the theme "Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works".

At GP Women's College, DM University and the Breastfeeding Promotion Alliance of Manipur (BPAM) jointly organised the programme.

DMU Vice Chancellor Prof W Chandbabu attended as chief guest, with GP Women's College Prof L Rajen as guest of honour.

Special guests included Dr Kh Ratan Kumar, MD, Mother's Care Children Hospital, and Dr N Kameshore, Head of Pediatrics, JNIMS.

Prof L Hemchandra, Dean, School of Life Sciences, DMU, presided.

Dr L Radhapyari of RIMS Pediatrics Department and BPAM life member was the resource person.

Prof Chandbabu said WHO aims to raise the global breastfeeding rate to 60% by 2030 .

He stressed that breast milk provides essential nutrients, supports brain development and immunity, and builds a strong foundation for life.

Dr Th Diana, Head, DMU Home Science (PG), called mother's milk a child's "first vaccine" and urged society to address challenges like lack of family support and work pressure.

The event also featured a poster painting and slogan writing competition, with prizes given to winners.

Meanwhile, the Trained Nurses' Association of India (TNAI), Manipur State Branch, in collaboration with RDO College of Nursing, observed the week at RDO Complex auditorium.

L Sudhirchand Singh, General Manager, Loyalam Group of Companies, attended as chief guest, while Dr Yumnam Sundari Devi, President.

TNAI Manipur State Branch, graced the occasion as guest of honour.

The programme was presided over by Dr A Ibotombi Sharma, President, BPAM.

Dr A Right Kumari Devi, Principal, RDO College of Nursing and Chairperson, Membership Committee, TNAI Manipur, along with N Rinabai Devi, Principal, RDO College of Nursing (GNM), served as chief hosts.

The technical sessions featured expert talks by Dr Ch Smilie Devi, Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatrics, RIMS, and Dr S Kiranmala Devi, Treasurer, TNAI Manipur State Branch.

They highlighted evidencebased breastfeeding practices, the nutritional and immunological benefits of breast milk, and the crucial role of healthcare professionals in promoting, protecting, and supporting breastfeeding.

Healthcare professionals, nursing educators and students reaffirmed their commitment to create an enabling environment for mothers.

The event concluded with participants taking a pledge to strengthen breastfeeding awareness in line with the global campaign to improve maternal and child health.

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