Bhubaneswar, May 29: Odisha is set to introduce dedicated breastfeeding rooms in public places such as malls, railway stations, and bus stands, announced Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. The move, aimed at providing comfort and privacy for nursing mothers, is expected to be implemented within the next two to three months, allowing women to breastfeed their babies with ease and without hesitation during their travels.
This initiative follows a directive from the Supreme Court in March of this year, urging states and union territories to take action on an advisory from the Union Government. The advisory called for the establishment of breastfeeding and childcare rooms in public spaces, reinforcing the importance of supporting breastfeeding practices in public and workplace environments without stigma.
In addition to the breastfeeding room initiative, the Odisha government is also prioritizing the promotion of menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls. "Schools have been instructed to install sanitary vending machines on their premises to ensure easy access to sanitary products for students," Parida said. "Furthermore, the state government is encouraging people to gift sanitary pads as part of wedding traditions to help reduce the stigma around menstrual hygiene."
These measures reflect the Odisha government's ongoing commitment to improving maternal and menstrual health, ensuring better support systems for women and girls across the state.
