No alternative to breastfeeding for children's normal growth: PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said there is no alternative to breastfeeding for the normal growth of children as it contains essential nutrition for the infant which increases resistance power.

In a message on the eve of the World Breastfeeding Week-2012 that begins tomorrow, she said breastfeeding corner has been introduced in government and non- government offices in the tenure of the present government.

The theme of this year's Breastfeeding Week is "Understanding the past- planning the future".

She said, "We have increased the amount of allowance and the number of beneficiaries under the maternal scheme, while working mothers are getting allowance from Working Lactating Mothers Fund."

The premier said that the government established 11,000 community clinics for reaching healthcare services for mother and children to the doorsteps of the people.

She said breastfeeding should be ensured to children from one hour after their birth till two years of age. "For this, it is very important to provide training to mothers," she added.

Besides, everyone of the family of a pregnant mother should ensure nutrition and care for her, the Prime Minister said.

Expressing her happiness for observing the week in the country like elsewhere in the globe, she wished success of the week.

The week would help create mass awareness about improvement of health of mothers and babies and ensuring nutrition to them, she hoped.

World Breastfeeding Week is observed every year from 1 to 7 August in more than 170 countries to encourage breastfeeding and improve the health of babies around the world.