As part of the World Breastfeeding Week celebration, the Department of Human Development and Family Studies, College of Community Science, Tura, organised an interactive session on breastfeeding techniques and associated factors for lactating mothers and students yesterday.
Medical and Child Health Officer, West Garo Hills Dr. Ivonne M. Sangma in her speech as the chief guest gave valuable insights into the best practices for breastfeeding and the various factors influencing successful breastfeeding.
College Dean Dr. Jyoti V. Vastrad noted that the Human Development and Family Studies course on child development includes breastfeeding components, preparing students to address social issues.
Dr. Brijendra Kumar Singh, Principal Scientist, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, East Garo Hills highlighted that breastfeeding is more common among rural mothers and emphasised its importance among educated mothers.
The organiser Dr. Kh. R Aimol also outlined activities for the week, including educational sessions, workshops, and a new lactation room facility.
The programme was attended by 36 lactating mothers, 45 students, and staff members of the college.
Meanwhile, in East Jaintia Hills, a World Breastfeeding Week 2024 observation on the theme ‘Closing the Gap: Breastfeeding Support for All’ was launched at Rymbai primary health centre attended by the District Immunisation Officer Dr NP Suchiang, Rymbai PHC Medical and Health Officer Dr L Kharnaior, other health officials, ASHAs and people of the area.
Dr Suchiang said that the annual event is meant to raise awareness among the populace about the importance of exclusive breastfeeding of newborns up to 6 months, and ill effects of prelacteal feeds to newborns, risks of feeding bottles, etc.
Dr Suchiang also said that it is equally important that nursing mothers have a good diet and said that breastfeeding helps establish a strong bond between mother and baby through skin-to-skin contact.
