Sri Vijaya Puram, July 31: Reproductive and Child Health – II, Union Territory Health Mission, A&N Islands in association with Directorate of Health Services will be observing World Breastfeeding Week across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands from 1st August to 7th August, 2026 under the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.” The theme emphasizes tracking progress, evaluating impact, and scaling up proven interventions that improve breastfeeding outcomes while strengthening support systems for mothers and infants.
During the week, awareness activities will be organized to inform, educate, and empower governments, health systems, workplaces, communities, and families to create and sustain breastfeeding-friendly environments. Special emphasis will be laid on breastfeeding within 1 hour of birth, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life, followed by continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary feeding up to two years of age or beyond.
The Directorate of Health Services, in collaboration with the Union Territory Health Mission, will undertake extensive Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities at both community and health facility levels. Health-care providers will utilize every available contact opportunity to counsel pregnant women, lactating mothers, and family members on the importance and benefits of optimal breastfeeding practices.
Various awareness programmes, counselling sessions, health talks, and community outreach activities will be conducted in all Government health institutions across the A&N Islands throughout the week to promote breastfeeding and improve maternal and child health outcomes.
