Ministry of Women and Child Development to Observe World Breastfeeding Week 2026 from 1st–7th August

The Ministry of Women and Child Development will observe World Breastfeeding Week 2026 from 1 – 7 August nationwide. The week‑long campaign aims to raise awareness among families, communities and healthcare providers about early initiation of breastfeeding within the first hour after birth (the ‘Golden Hour’), exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and continued breastfeeding up to two years alongside appropriate complementary feeding. The Ministry highlights the health benefits for infants—survival, growth and cognitive development—and for mothers, including postpartum recovery and reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancers, type‑2 diabetes and postpartum depression. It urges mothers to seek support from ASHA workers, Anganwadi workers and other health professionals.