Odisha Deputy CM Advocates Breastfeeding Centres In Shopping Malls
According to official sources, Parida called on all major commercial establishments—especially malls—to voluntarily collaborate in establishing safe, private spaces for nursing mothers.
Bhubaneswar: In a step towards creating more inclusive and mother-friendly public spaces, Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida on Wednesday urged shopping mall authorities across the State to set up dedicated breastfeeding centres.
The appeal comes as part of a broader campaign to support nursing mothers and enhance maternal infrastructure in public spaces. Highlighting that over 75 per cent of mall-goers are women, the Deputy CM underscored the pressing need for breastfeeding and sanitary facilities in commercial hubs.
According to official sources, Parida called on all major commercial establishments—especially malls—to voluntarily collaborate in establishing safe, private spaces for nursing mothers. She clarified that the initiative is not mandatory but a request aimed at improving the customer experience for women and families.
“Just a small private space in shopping malls can go a long way in ensuring comfort and dignity for nursing mothers,” she said.
The state government is also planning to extend such facilities to bus stands, railway stations, weekly markets, and other high-footfall public areas, ensuring wider access to maternal care amenities.
Marking World Breastfeeding Week (August 1–7), the department of women and child development launched two dedicated websites to raise awareness and support the cause. Additionally, the State’s first official breastfeeding centre was inaugurated at the Odisha State Commission for Women (OSCW) premises.
Furthering its digital outreach, the government also introduced the Lok Kalyan App, which aims to connect social workers with the Women’s Welfare Board for better service delivery and community engagement.
“This initiative is about collaboration, not compulsion,” Parida emphasised, adding that making public spaces more inclusive for mothers and children is a step towards holistic development.
World Breastfeeding Week is celebrated annually in more than 120 countries to promote awareness on the importance of breastfeeding and maternal health.
