The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP), Dharwad branch, in association with the Rotary Club of Seven Hills, launched World Breastfeeding Week with an awareness programme at the Civil Hospital in Dharwad on Saturday.

Speaking on the occasion, senior paediatrician T.A. Shepur said breast milk was the most natural and complete source of nutrition for newborns and played a key role in healthy growth and development.

He said breastfeeding helped in protecting infants against infections such as diarrhoea and pneumonia, strengthened immunity and reduced the risk of several childhood illnesses.

Dr. Shepur urged mothers to initiate breastfeeding as early as possible after delivery and called upon healthcare professionals to provide timely counselling and support to new mothers.

IAP Dharwad president Kavan Deshpande emphasised the importance of initiating breastfeeding within the first hour after birth.

He said colostrum, the first milk produced by the mother, was rich in antibodies and served as the baby’s “first vaccine”.

He appealed to families not to discard colostrum because of myths or traditional beliefs and said exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months provided all the nutrition and fluids required by an infant.

Paediatrician Nisha urged mothers to avoid misconceptions that discourage breastfeeding and to seek medical advice if they encounter difficulties.

Physiotherapist Drishti Deshpande conducted a demonstration on correct breastfeeding techniques and positioning for mothers and infants.

Published - August 01, 2026 06:30 pm IST