Abdullah Hoque, Chuadanga: Emphasising that breast milk is the best and safest source of nutrition for newborns, health officials in Chuadanga launched World Breastfeeding Week 2026 on Sunday with a colourful rally and an awareness discussion.The week is being observed under the global theme: "Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems."The programme began at 10:00 am with a rally from the premises of the Civil Surgeon's Office. Later, an inaugural discussion marking the week-long observance, scheduled from August 1 to 7, was held at the office's conference hall.Presiding over the event, Chuadanga Civil Surgeon Dr. Hadi Ziauddin Ahmed said breastfeeding is essential for a child's healthy growth and immunity, stressing that there is no substitute for a mother's milk.He warned that feeding infants powdered milk without a registered physician's prescription could be harmful and reminded participants that the sale of infant formula without complying with legal requirements is a punishable offence under the country's regulations."Pharmacies must have the required licence to sell infant formula, and legal action, including mobile court fines, may be taken against those who violate the law," he said, urging greater public awareness on the issue.The discussion opened with a presentation on breastfeeding and infant nutrition by Dr. Sajid Hasan, Medical Officer of Chuadanga Sadar Hospital.Speakers highlighted that newborns should be fed colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk produced after childbirth, immediately after birth. They also reiterated that infants should receive only breast milk during their first six months, as recommended by health experts worldwide.Associate Professor and gynaecology specialist Dr. Aklima Khatun said many parents unnecessarily introduce commercially available milk to newborns, often without medical advice."A newborn's stomach is very small, and breast milk alone is sufficient during the first six months. Increasing public awareness about exclusive breastfeeding is vital," she said.Among others, Chuadanga Sadar Hospital Superintendent Dr. Bidyut Kumar Biswas, Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer Dr. Awliar Rahman, and Resident Medical Officer Dr. Farhana Wahid Tani also addressed the programme.Medical Officer Dr. Shamima Yasmin, chest disease specialist Dr. Fatima Haque, Chief Office Assistant Faruk Hossain, and officials and employees from different units of the health department were present. Health experts at the programme unanimously stressed that exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life significantly reduces the risk of infection, strengthens a child's immune system, and lays the foundation for healthy physical and mental development. They called on families, healthcare providers and the wider community to work together in creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers.