Odisha Pilots AI-Based Child Growth Monitoring During World Breastfeeding Week

Bhubaneswar: The Department of Women and Child Development (WCD), Odisha, marked World Breastfeeding Week 2026 with a state-level programme highlighting both traditional maternal care and modern technology.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary Dr Mrinalini Darswal emphasised that breast milk is a child’s “first vaccine,” urging families to support mothers in initiating breastfeeding within one hour of birth and continuing exclusive breastfeeding for six months.

The event also showcased an AI-powered child growth monitoring system developed by the Wadhwani Foundation.

Using mobile phone video, the tool measures parameters such as weight, height, head circumference, chest circumference, and MUAC. Odisha will pilot this system to strengthen early childhood nutrition monitoring.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida reiterated the government’s commitment, stating, “Mother’s milk is the first shield of protection.”

Parents of children aged 0–6 years were felicitated with nutrition baskets and child-care kits, underscoring community participation in maternal and child health.

The initiative reflects Odisha’s dual focus: promoting breastfeeding as the cornerstone of child health while integrating AI solutions for real-time growth tracking.