Odisha directs opening of breastfeeding rooms in govt, private offices for nursing mothers

In a significant move to support nursing mothers, the Odisha government on Friday gave a nod for the opening of breastfeeding rooms in all government and private offices in the state. Not just offices, the BJP-led government has mandated the establishment of breastfeeding rooms in public places too.

Every office is expected to keep a separate room to help employees breastfeed their children during office hours. 

In a letter to all the District Collectors, Rina Mohapatra, Joint Resident Commissioner, Government of Odisha, directed officials to open a separate room that can be used by mothers to breastfeed their children without any disturbance.

“To help nursing mothers balance between their professional commitments and personal responsibilities, I request to establish breastfeeding rooms in all government/public, and private offices in the state,” the letter read.

Through the letter, Rina directed all the officials concerned for its quick implementation at the earliest.

The initiative aims to create a more inclusive working environment for nursing mothers. The policy also addresses the challenges faced by working mothers and boosts productivity, apart from fostering a healthier work-life balance.