Breastfeeding is the foundation for a strong future: Minister Seethakka

WARANGAL: State Minister for Panchayat Raj, Rural Development, Rural Water Supply, Women and Child Welfare, Danasari Anasuya Seethakka, said that breastfeeding is the strongest foundation for the healthy growth of infants. She called for the successful conduct of World Breastfeeding Week being observed from August 1 to 7.

Addressing the occasion, the Minister advised that every mother should initiate breastfeeding within one hour of childbirth. She stated that breast milk is the safest, cleanest, and most complete source of nutrition for infants, and plays a crucial role in ensuring their healthy development.

She urged mothers to exclusively breastfeed their babies for the first six months, and thereafter continue breastfeeding along with complementary food for at least one year or beyond. Emphasising that breastfeeding is the right of every child, she appealed to mothers to recognise their responsibility and ensure this right is protected.

The Minister noted that the nutritional intake of mothers directly influences the quality of breast milk, helping children grow healthy and strong. She underlined that breastfeeding plays a key role in ensuring a healthy childhood and in building a stronger society.

On the occasion of World Breastfeeding Week, Seethakka directed Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers, and medical staff to conduct extensive awareness programmes in villages and encourage every mother to adopt breastfeeding practices.

She appealed to people across the State to actively participate in the week-long celebrations and make them a success, while extending her greetings to all mothers on World Breastfeeding Week.