Odisha Unveils First Breastfeeding Centre to Champion Maternal Health

(OT Webdesk)In a landmark initiative coinciding with World Breastfeeding Week, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the state’s first Breastfeeding Centre at the State Women’s Commission.

Addressing Anganwadi workers at a convention hosted by the Women and Child Development Department, Parida emphasised the need to prioritize maternal and child health, calling breastfeeding a “collective responsibility.”

To further support mothers, the state launched the Lok Kalyan Portal to foster collaboration among social service organisations.

Plans are underway to establish breastfeeding centres at bus stands, railway stations, and marketplaces, with each railway station centre staffed by a female attendant to assist mothers.

These efforts aim to dismantle societal and infrastructural barriers, creating inclusive public spaces that promote maternal well-being and normalize breastfeeding.