The Trained Nurses Association of India (TNAI) Ukhrul Branch in collaboration with District Hospital Ukhrul, District Health Society, Ukhrul is organising a World Breastfeeding Week 2026 under the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works” at Ngacham Hall, District Hospital Ukhrul.
“Reviewing our commitment to protect, promote and support breastfeeding to ensure that mother and baby receive the support for a healthy start of life” stated Functional President of the day, Dr. Pamza Luikham while delivering the key note address.
Dr. Reisangmi Raikhan, Medical Superintendent of District Hospital Ukhrul lauded the initiative of TNAI Ukhrul Branch. He stated that “the health condition of the mother is very important. Because mother is the source of breast milk. I suggest timely visit of the mother at the hospital during pregnancy period and regular health checkup. He appealed to the husband, children and their families to support the pregnant mother and during breast feeding stage”.
Guest of Honour, Lanmila Ningshen, Principal Rosella Nurisng Institute, Ukhrul stated that “a mother should not be alone in her breastfeeding journey. A family support and a safe environment in her workplace is very important for a successful breastfeed. Society must understand and show respect and support to breastfeeding mothers.”
Resource person Dr. Themyaola Ningshen, Senior Consultant, Pediatrician DHU, explained the importance of breastfeeding and the breastfeeding anatomy. She also stressed the breastfeeding benefits to the baby and the mother and calls for successful breastfeeding.
She also stressed on – how the mother’s confidence role plays a part in breast milk transfer. She added that pain, worry, stress and doubt all contributed to the production of breast milk. Some important tips given by Dr. Themyaola Ningshen are:
1. Initiate breast feeding as early as possible at least within one hour of birth
2. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life and in a correct position.
3. Introduce nutritional adequate and safe complementary foods after the infant reaches 6 months of age
4. Continue to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond
5. Build mother’s confidence to sustain good milk supply and alleviate the feeling of not enough milk
Dr. Themyaola Ningshen also suggests the nurses to check the correct sucking position during breast feeding especially while delivering at hospital and educate about the importance of correct position and attachment.
Poster presentations were carried out by Bernice A Shatsang on benefits of breastfeeding to mother and baby and Theiyaphi Marchang on position of breast feeding.
Considering the importance of breastfeeding, the World Breastfeeding Week is observed annually from 1-7 August as a global campaign to highlight the importance of breastfeeding that calls for stronger support from families, communities, healthcare providers, work place and government to create an enabling environment for breastfeeding. This year’s observance provides an opportunity to raise awareness about accurate information, skills, counseling, maternity protection and supportive workplace so that mothers can make informed choices and breastfeed successfully by promoting breastfeeding through education and respectful support for mothers.
