radhika – Chennaionline

As part of its World Breastfeeding Week observance, MGM Healthcare brought together over 100 young mothers along with paediatric and neonatal experts at its premises to raise awareness about the importance of breastfeeding. Veteran actor and politician Radhika Sarathkumar along with Dr. Urjitha Rajagopalan , Managing Director, MGM Healthcare presided over the event in the presence of Dr. Chandra Kumar , Senior Consultant & HOD Paediatrics and Neonatology, Dr. Deepa Easow , Senior Consultant, Paediatrics & Neonatology, Dr. Pilli Govardhan , Senior Consultant, Neonatology, MGM Healthcare. World Breastfeeding Week has been observed annually between August 1 to 7 across the globe to create awareness among the public about the importance of breastfeeding for infants. This year’s theme is ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life : Strengthen That Works’, focusing on tracking progress, evaluating impact, and scaling proven approaches that improve breastfeeding outcomes. Inline with the theme, the hospital management has been organising a series of engaging and educational activities including poster competition, rangoli competition, reels competition for lactating mothers, and a well-baby contest based on exclusive breastfeeding practises over the week. As a conclusion to the observance, an interactive session was organised with experts from Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Neonatology, and lactation consultants, creating an opportunity for lactating mothers to debunk myths and address their concerns. The week-long celebration was aimed at educating and empowering young mothers on the significance of exclusive breastfeeding in ensuring optimal growth, immunity, and overall health of infants. The Paediatric and Neonatology department and the Obstetrics and Gynaecology department actively participated in the programme under their ‘Varam’ initiative. Speaking at the event Dr. Urjitha Rajagopalan said, “Breastfeeding is a critical component of maternal and child health, but its success depends not only on a mother’s intent, but also on the environment in which she is supported. As a doctor and as a first-time mother, I have personally experienced the value of having a strong support system of family, caregivers and healthcare professionals. As healthcare leaders, we must recognise that enabling and sustaining breastfeeding requires a collective commitment from families, healthcare institutions, workplaces and society. The theme for World Breastfeeding Week 2026, ‘Breastfeeding for a sustainable start in life: strengthen what works,’ reinforces the need to strengthen these support systems and ensure that every mother is empowered to make informed choices and receive the care and support she needs.” In his comments, Dr. Chandra Kumar stated “Breastfeeding is the ideal source of nutrition for every newborn baby. It is vital to ensure exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months because it lays the foundation for lifelong health, stronger immunity, and optimal development. On this World Breastfeeding Week, let us reaffirm our commitment to ensure every mother receives the maximum support, knowledge and encouragement she needs to provide exclusive breastfeeding to her infant.”