The Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India, will observe World Breastfeeding Week 2026 from August 1st to 7th August across the country. This week-long campaign aims to create awareness among families, communities and healthcare providers about early initiation of breastfeeding, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond alongside appropriate complementary feeding.
The Ministry emphasizes that breastfeeding is among the most effective interventions for child survival, healthy growth and cognitive development. They specifically urge families to ensure every newborn receives breast milk within the first hour after birth, referred to as the Golden Hour. The first milk, colostrum, is described as the baby's first natural vaccine, rich in antibodies and essential nutrition, and must not be discarded.
Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months means feeding the baby only breast milk with no water, honey, ghutti, glucose or formula. The Ministry states that breast milk alone meets all of an infant's nutritional and hydration needs during this period. After six months, complementary foods should be introduced while continuing breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. The campaign encourages mothers to maintain skin-to-skin contact after birth, breastfeed frequently, and seek guidance from ASHA workers, Anganwadi Workers or healthcare providers when needed. Working mothers are advised they may express and safely store breast milk.
The Ministry also highlights that breastfeeding benefits mothers by supporting postpartum recovery and reducing the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, type-2 diabetes and postpartum depression. The Ministry calls upon healthcare professionals, community workers, families and citizens to create an enabling environment where every mother is empowered to breastfeed, and every child receives the best possible start in life.