Guwahati: World Breastfeeding Week was launched across Kamrup Metropolitan district on Saturday with a pledge to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding and ensure optimal nutrition for newborns from the earliest stages of life.

The week-long observance, being held from August 1 to 7, was inaugurated at the Satgaon State Ayushman Arogya Mandir by Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Saikia, Joint Director of Health Services, Kamrup Metropolitan.

The campaign is being observed across Assam to educate mothers and families about the health benefits of breastfeeding and encourage healthy infant feeding practices. It also aims to provide guidance and support to lactating mothers to ensure the well-being and healthy development of newborns.

Health officials highlighted that breastfeeding plays a vital role in strengthening a child’s immunity, promoting healthy growth, and reducing the risk of infections during infancy. Various awareness programmes, counselling sessions, and community outreach activities will be organised throughout the week to spread awareness about the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and maternal care.