As part of the ongoing Mamta Diwas (Motherhood and Child Health Day) initiative, the Mass Media Team of the Health Department conducted a special awareness session at the Ludhiana Civil Hospital on July 2, 2026. The session aimed to educate pregnant women and lactating mothers about safe motherhood, institutional deliveries, timely immunisation, antenatal care, newborn care, and exclusive breastfeeding.
Focus on Safe Motherhood and Institutional Deliveries
Dr Ramandeep Kaur, Civil Surgeon, Ludhiana, emphasised that pregnancy is a critical phase requiring regular antenatal check-ups, timely immunisation, balanced nutrition, adequate rest, and proper medical supervision to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. She urged every pregnant woman to register her pregnancy at the nearest government health facility, undergo all recommended health check-ups, and seek immediate medical attention for any complications.
Dr Ramandeep stressed that institutional delivery remains the safest option, as it provides access to skilled healthcare professionals and emergency medical care. She called on expectant mothers to avoid unnecessary risks by opting for deliveries at government health institutions, where quality services are offered free of cost.
Breastfeeding and Newborn Care
Highlighting the importance of breastfeeding, Dr Ramandeep stated that breastfeeding should begin within the first hour after birth, and every newborn should receive colostrum—the first thick yellowish milk—which acts as the baby’s first natural vaccine, providing vital antibodies to strengthen immunity. She added that infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months without water or any other food, as breast milk offers complete nutrition and protects against infections. Continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary feeding after six months contributes significantly to a child’s healthy growth and development.
Free Government Healthcare Services
“Punjab’s Health Department is providing a wide range of free maternal and child healthcare services, including antenatal and postnatal care, routine immunisation, counselling, nutritional guidance, and newborn care through government health institutions,” said Dr Ramandeep. She appealed to all eligible beneficiaries to fully utilise these facilities and ensure every child receives immunisation according to the national schedule.
On the occasion, Deputy Mass Media Officer Rajinder Singh interacted with pregnant women and new mothers to create awareness about safe delivery, exclusive breastfeeding, and various government welfare schemes available for mothers and children.
