UNICEF and Bengal Partner to Engage Fathers in Breastfeeding

The West Bengal government and UNICEF have teamed up to encourage fathers to play an active role in promoting breastfeeding among new mothers. This initiative aims to enhance family support for breastfeeding and improve the rates of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life.

Initiative Details

Collaboration: The West Bengal Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Department is partnering with UNICEF to involve fathers in breastfeeding advocacy.

Awareness Campaign: Anganwadi workers are now engaging with fathers and other family members about the benefits of breastfeeding, emphasizing that this discussion should begin from conception to ensure comprehensive family support.

Health Benefits

Exclusive Breastfeeding: Current statistics reveal that 53% of mothers still need to practice exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.

Colostrum Feeding: Dr. Shashi Panja, Minister in charge, highlights the importance of initiating breastfeeding within an hour of birth, including in cesarean cases, with the help of medical staff.

Global Perspective

Fathers’ Involvement: Dr. Md Monjur Hossain of UNICEF shared a successful example from Southeast Asia, where fathers were encouraged to use their chests for baby care, enhancing their participation. He noted that breastfeeding fosters a strong mother-child bond and reduces environmental impact by decreasing reliance on non-human milk.

Expert Opinion

Nutritional Value: Dr. Basab Mukherjee, president of the Bengal Obstetric and Gynaecological Society, describes breast milk as the baby’s “first vaccine,” rich in essential nutrients and antibodies.