In honor of World Breastfeeding Week 2026, the Bengal Obstetric & Gynaecological Society (BOGS), in collaboration with the Indian Society of Perinatology and Reproductive Biology (ISOPARB), organized a Continuing Medical Education (CME) program at Medical College, Kolkata, emphasizing the need to improve breastfeeding initiation within the first hour of birth and expand awareness campaigns beyond urban centers.

Leading obstetricians, gynecologists, neonatologists, pediatricians, academicians, and medical professionals convened for the scientific program to discuss the most recent evidence-based strategies for enhancing breastfeeding support and enhancing the health of mothers and newborns.

The inaugural session was graced by Dr. Sharadwat Mukherjee, Hon’ble Minister of Health & Family Welfare, Government of West Bengal, Prof. (Dr.) Indranil Biswas, Principal, Medical College, Kolkata, Dr. Shyamol Sett, President, BOGS, and Dr. Sebanti Goswami, Honorary Secretary, BOGS.

Dr. Sharadwat Mukherjee said, “A newborn’s best gift from nature is breastfeeding, and starting it within the first hour of life is essential to the child’s survival and healthy development. A mother’s first milk, colostrum, is vital for immunity and should never be thrown away. Although exclusive breastfeeding rates in West Bengal are higher than the national average, we still need to increase early initiation rates by protecting mothers’ privacy, encouraging healthy deliveries, and bolstering maternity support. The West Bengal government is still dedicated to raising awareness of breastfeeding and enhancing the health of mothers and children in every district”

To improve maternal and newborn health outcomes, experts from BOGS and ISOPARB emphasized evidence-based breastfeeding practices, emphasizing increased lactation support, maternal counseling, and cooperative efforts.

Dr. Shyamol Sett, President, BOGS, said, “One of the best public health strategies for guaranteeing the health and welfare of moms and babies is breastfeeding. We can improve breastfeeding practices and build a healthier future for the coming generation through ongoing medical education and increased public awareness. It is our shared duty to provide each mother with the information, self-assurance, and medical advice she requires to successfully breastfeed”.

Prominent physicians, academics, postgraduate students, and medical professionals from all over West Bengal participated in the program, demonstrating BOGS and ISOPARB’s dedication to promoting evidence-based maternity and neonatal healthcare.

Priyanka Dutta