Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati emphasised the critical importance of providing proper nutrition, care, and protection to every newborn, regardless of background, while addressing the 15th National Conference of the Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) Chapter and the 11th National Conference of the Indian Human Milk Banking Association in Bhubaneswar on Sunday.
Speaking on this year’s conference theme, “Preserving the Heritage of Tomorrow: Adopting Sustainable Newborn and Infant Feeding (IYCF) and Breastfeeding Practices”, the Governor said the message underscores how a nation’s future depends on the nutrition and care provided during the first 1,000 days—from conception to a child’s second birthday. He highlighted that this period is crucial for physical development, brain growth, and overall well-being.
“The health, intelligence, and vitality of future citizens are deeply rooted in the care they receive as newborns,” Dr. Kambhampati said. He also noted that every drop of a mother’s milk carries not just nutrition but love, immunity, and emotional development in ways science cannot replicate.
While India has made significant progress in reducing newborn and child mortality, he acknowledged ongoing challenges, including malnutrition, lack of awareness, and social barriers. He stressed that solutions lie not only in medical care but also in education, empowerment, and community support, with health professionals playing a key role in guiding families toward better practices.
The Governor also lauded mothers who donate their milk to nourish other children, calling it a “silent act of compassion and participatory motherhood” deserving of respect. He highlighted Odisha’s initiatives under the National Health Mission, including nutrition rehabilitation centers and community outreach programs, which have contributed to improving maternal and child health.
The ceremony featured addresses by Dr. Kanya Mukhopadhyay, Secretary of Human Milk Banking, and Dr. Jai Singh, IYCF Secretary. The event opened with a welcome address by Dr. Braja Kishore Behera, Scientific Committee Chair, and concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Pratik Dey, Co-organisation Secretary. During the program, national staff of IYCF and HMB were also honored for their contributions.
