World Breastfeeding Week observed

Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (CSKHPKV), Palampur, observed World Breastfeeding Week at the Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology, College of Community Science. The week-long celebration aimed to raise awareness about the many benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.

This year’s theme, “Invest in Breastfeeding, Invest in the Future”, underscored the importance of ensuring that every mother receives the support and information needed to breastfeed exclusively for the first six months of life.

In his message, Vice-Chancellor Prof Naveen Kumar described breastfeeding as “nature’s first gift — a foundation for lifelong health.” He stressed that by promoting awareness, society invests in building healthier generations. Dean of the College, Dr Chanderkanta Vats, commended the faculty’s efforts and emphasised the importance of such initiatives for societal welfare.

The programme highlighted breastfeeding as a vital practice that boosts immunity, supports physical and cognitive development, and strengthens the maternal-infant bond.

To mark the occasion, activities such as poster-making, slogan-writing and group discussions were organised, with around 40 students participating actively. The outreach also featured a radio talk on “Providing a Happy and Healthy Environment for Breastfeeding the Infant” aired on Gunjan Community Radio, Sidhbari, and an online lecture on “The Importance of Breastfeeding” under the All India Coordinated Research Project on Women in Agriculture.