Past Activities

Key Highlights:

World Hypertension Day 2026 was observed by Dept of Community Medicine, Barasat Govt Medical College under the aegis pf IPHA HQ & State at Chhotojagulia BPHC, N24 PGs. Key Highlights of the program: - Hands-on demonstration of validated digital and aneroid BP apparatus for ASHA workers and nursing staff. - Focus on “Know Your Numbers” – every attendee was given a BP record card. - Emphasis on DASH diet, reduction of dietary salt, and regular physical activity. - Active involvement of BPHC staff ensured community participation - Distribution of Awareness materials among all patients and caregivers attending the hospital The observance of World Hypertension Day 2026 at Chhotojagulia BPHC successfully sensitized the rural population about prevention, early detection, and control of hypertension. The program strengthened the link between Barasat Govt. Medical College, IPHA, and the peripheral health system in NCD control.

The Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), West Bengal State Branch, commemoratively observed International Yoga Day – 2026 by organizing a 30-minute offline yoga session on 27th June 2026 at IPHA Bhaban, Salt Lake. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Banchbo Healing Touch Foundation, with the support of the Asian Yoga Research Institute & VTC, to promote awareness of the importance of yoga and to highlight its potential benefits for healthy ageing and overall well-being. The programme was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Kaushik Mitra, Secretary General of IPHA; Prof. (Dr.) Mausumi Basu, Hony. Secretary of the IPHA West Bengal State Branch; and Dr. Dhires Kumar Chowdhury, Founder Director & CEO of the Banchbo Healing Touch Foundation. Mr. Swarup Goswami, Regional Coordinator, Healthcare Sector Skill Council - Eastern Region (Skill India) graced the occasion as Hon'ble Guest. A total of 40 participants from IPHA and the Banchbo Healing Touch Foundation attended the session. Dr. Ujjwal Ghosh, Executive Member, West Bengal Naturopathy and Yoga Council, Govt of West Bengal and Director, Asian Yoga Research Institute and VTC was the trainer. Under the guidance of him, the participants actively performed a series of basic yoga postures, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. The session was conducted enthusiastically, and participants appreciated the opportunity to experience the physical and mental health benefits of regular yoga practice.

The Department of Community Medicine, IPGME&R, Kolkata, in collaboration with the Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), West Bengal State Branch, organized a Pre-Conference Workshop on “Updates on Infectious Disease Modelling” as part of WBIPHACON 2026. The workshop was held on Saturday, 18th July 2026, from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM at the Medical Education Unit (MEU) Room, 3rd Floor, Academic Building, IPGME&R, Kolkata. The programme commenced with registration from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM. The Welcome Address was delivered by Dr Sreetama Chakrabarti, Assistant Professor, Community Medicine, IPGME&R, Kolkata, from 9:30 AM to 9:40 AM. This was followed by an introductory session on “Infectious Disease Modelling: Public Health Perspective”, conducted by Prof. (Dr) Kuntala Ray, HOD, Community Medicine, IPGME&R, Kolkata. The session covered concepts in infectious disease dynamics, International Health Regulations (IHR), and an overview of QGIS, thereby providing participants with a foundation for understanding infectious disease modelling from a public health perspective. The formal inauguration of the workshop was held from 10:45 AM to 11:00 AM in the presence of distinguished dignitaries, including Prof. (Dr) Avijit Hazra, Dean of Students’ Affairs, IPGME&R, Kolkata; Prof. (Dr) Mausumi Basu, Secretary, IPHA West Bengal State Branch, Prof. (Dr) Pranita Tarafdar (Chairperson, Pre-conference committee), Dr Kaushik Mitra , Dr Sanjib Bandyopadhyay, Dr Awditiya Das, Organizing co-chairperson and Dr Debdutta Haldar, Organizing Secretary, WBIPHACON 2026. The first major academic session, from 11:00 AM to 12:15 PM, was conducted by Dr Ayesha Mukhopadhyay, Former Epidemiologist, Shelby County Health Department, Memphis, Tennessee, USA, and Consultant Family Physician, Salubrity Clinic, Kolkata. The session, titled “Mechanics of Infectious Disease Modelling: Real Life Example,” focused on analysing real-world applications of infectious disease modelling, including COVID-19 forecasting, dengue/malaria transmission mapping, and the impact and forecasting of Ebola. Following a short tea break from 12:15 PM to 12:30 PM, a hands-on session on the basic exercises and parameters of infectious disease modelling was conducted by Dr Ayesha Mukhopadhyay from 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM. This practical component was intended to facilitate a better understanding of the fundamental parameters involved in infectious disease modelling. After lunch, from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, the workshop resumed with a session on the “Present Scenario of Infectious Diseases in West Bengal”, conducted by Dr Yogiraj Ray, Head, Department of Infectious Diseases, IPGME&R, Kolkata. The session addressed the prevailing infectious disease situation in West Bengal and provided perspectives and expert insights on the state's health scenario. The subsequent practical session on “Prediction Modelling using Software”, held from 3:00 PM to 4:15 PM, was conducted by Dr Arkaprabha Sau, Deputy Director (Medical), Central Civil Services, DGOSH (formerly DGFASLI), Ministry of Labour and Employment, Government of India. The session focused on translating mathematical sketches into working prediction models using software, thereby providing participants with practical exposure to software-based modelling approaches. Valedictory Session The workshop concluded with certificate distribution and the Vote of Thanks from 4:15 PM to 4:30 PM. The certificates were distributed in the presence of the dignitaries, followed by the Vote of Thanks delivered by Prof. (Dr) Kuntala Ray, HOD, Community Medicine, IPGME&R, Kolkata. The Pre-Conference Workshop on “Updates on Infectious Disease Modelling” provided a structured academic and practical platform covering the public health perspective of infectious disease modelling, infectious disease dynamics, IHR, QGIS, real-world modelling applications, basic modelling parameters, the infectious disease scenario in West Bengal, and software-based prediction modelling. The combination of expert-led lectures, real-life examples and hands-on practical sessions made the programme relevant to the application of modelling approaches in epidemiology and public health. The workshop successfully brought together expertise from Community Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology and modelling-related disciplines, providing participants with a comprehensive introduction to contemporary approaches to infectious disease modelling and their relevance to public health practice and research.

As part of WBIPHACON 2026, a pre-conference workshop on “Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment for Public Health Professionals” was organized by the Department of Geriatric Medicine and the Department of Community Medicine, Medical College, Kolkata, on 21 July 2026. A total of 46 participants attended the workshop, representing diverse professional backgrounds, including faculty members, postgraduate trainees, research scholars, public health professionals, nutritionists, geriatricians, and nursing personnel. The programme began with an introduction to Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) by Prof. Arunanshu Talukdar, Head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine. This was followed by hands-on training in small groups on various components of CGA, including functional assessment, cognitive assessment, psychological and behavioural assessment, environmental assessment, fall-risk assessment, and nutritional assessment. After lunch, the participants were taken on a brief visit to the Physiotherapy and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) Unit. The programme concluded with a session on elderly vaccination, conducted by Prof. Arup Chakraborty, Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Medical College, Kolkata, and Dr. Debjit Chakraborty, Scientist E, ICMR-NIRBI. The workshop was predominantly hands-on and highly interactive, providing participants with practical exposure to different components of comprehensive geriatric assessment. The feedback received from the participants was very encouraging, with several participants expressing interest in having similar workshops organized in the future. The workshop was graced by the presence of the President and Secretary General of the National IPHA, as well as the President and Secretary of the IPHA West Bengal Branch. The Chairperson of the Pre-Conference Committee and the Organizing President of WBIPHACON 2026 also attended the workshop. The administration of Medical College, Kolkata, extended its full cooperation and support in organizing the workshop, contributing significantly to its successful conduct.

A workshop on “Comprehensive Public Health Guidelines” was organized on 23 July 2026 at the Auditorium, Aliah University, Park Circus Campus, jointly by the Department of Nursing, Aliah University, Park Circus Campus, and the Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), West Bengal Branch, as part of the pre-conference workshop of WBIPHACON 2026. The workshop aimed to promote the standardization of healthcare delivery, strengthen the capacity of healthcare teams and community workers, facilitate the translation of scientific evidence into public health practice, and promote optimal utilization of resources within local health systems. The programme was attended by 170 external participants from various institutions across West Bengal, along with 7th-semester nursing students and faculty members of the Department of Nursing, Aliah University. The invited experts included Dr. (Prof.) Mausumi Basu, Dr. (Prof.) Aditi Aikat, Dr. (Prof.) Anindita Roy Chowdhury, Dr. Rumi Sen, Dr. Snita Bhunia, and Dr. Usha Mallick. A panel discussion was also conducted with eminent public health experts, providing participants with an opportunity for interactive discussion and exchange of experiences. The workshop was inaugurated by Prof. Saifulla, Registrar, Aliah University, in the presence of Dr. Surojit Ghosh, President, IPHA West Bengal Branch; Dr. Sanghamitra Ghosh, National President, IPHA; Dr. Mausumi Basu, Secretary, IPHA; Dr. Rama Bhunia, Additional Director of Public Health, Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of West Bengal; Dr. Smritikana Mani; and other dignitaries. The programme included interactive and hands-on training sessions, enabling participants to develop a practical understanding of public health guidelines and their application in healthcare and community settings. The participants expressed their satisfaction with the workshop through the feedback forms. All participants were awarded certificates carrying 5 WBNC credit hours. Overall, the workshop provided a valuable platform for strengthening participants’ knowledge and practical skills in the application of comprehensive public health guidelines and reinforced the importance of evidence-based and standardized approaches to public health practice.

As part of WBIPHACON 2026, a Pre-Conference Workshop on “Scientific Writing & Research Methodology” was organized on 20 July 2026, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, at Diamond Harbour Government Medical College and Hospital. The workshop was organized by the Medical Education Unit (MEU) in collaboration with the Department of Community Medicine. The workshop aimed to strengthen participants’ skills in formulating research questions, selecting appropriate study designs, sampling and sample-size calculation, questionnaire development, data management and analysis, scientific writing, publication practices, and research ethics. The inaugural session featured keynote addresses by Prof. (Dr.) Md. Sadique Mallick, Organising Chairperson, and Prof. (Dr.) Tanmay Kanti Panja. Dr. Subhrajyoti Naskar served as the Organising Secretary. The academic programme covered four major areas: Foundations of Research Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Scientific Writing, and Publication & Research Ethics. Faculty members addressed research question formulation, study designs, sampling and sample-size calculation, questionnaire development, data cleaning using SPSS, statistical analysis, manuscript preparation, abstracts and keywords, literature review, referencing, plagiarism, authorship, peer review, journal selection, and research ethics. Four interactive exercises and a case-based discussion provided opportunities for practical application. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Subhrajyoti Naskar at 5:15 PM, followed by closure at 5:30 PM. Overall, the workshop provided a structured and practical overview of the complete research pathway, emphasizing methodological clarity, scientific communication, accurate reporting, and responsible research practices.

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As part of the observation of World Breastfeeding Week, the Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), West Bengal State Branch, in collaboration with the College of Nursing, R.G. Kar Medical College and Hospital, organized an awareness program at the Auditorium of the College of Nursing, R.G. Kar MCH. The session commenced with inaugural addresses by Principal Nirupama Saha and Vice-Principal Shipra Modak of the College of Nursing, R.G. Kar MCH. Dr. Somnath Naskar, Associate Professor of Community Medicine at IPGME&R and Hony. Secretary of IPHA WB State Branch, delivered the introductory speech. Pallabi Chatterjee, Dietitian and EC Member of IPHA, spoke on the mechanism of breastfeeding and dietary recommendations, followed by Dr. Anindita Maiti, Assistant Professor of Community Medicine at IPGME&R and EC Member of IPHA, who discussed common breastfeeding problems and their solutions. Sutapa Roy, Senior Public Health Nurse, highlighted the importance of exclusive breastfeeding, while Ananya Chatterjee, Project Research Scientist, presented on the psychological context of breastfeeding. The event concluded with two educational role-plays performed by the 8th-semester B.Sc. Nursing students of the College of Nursing, R.G. Kar MCH.

In association with IPHA HQ and IPHA WB br, Department of Community Medicine, ICARE,Haldia today, 3rd August 2026, successfully organized World Breastfeeding Week Celebration in the presence of esteemed dignitaries and 150 students of MBBS Batch 2024-25. The program was delighted with topics like Exclusive bf & Complementary feeding, barriers & challenges, BFHI, Demonstration of correct positioning & attachment, and Quiz

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World Breastfeeding Week 2026 was observed at Malda Medical College and Hospital under the aegis of the Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), jointly organized by the Department of Community Medicine, Nursing Training School, Department of Paediatrics, and other concerned departments. On 3 August 2026, a CME programme was organized at the Seminar Room of the Nursing Training School on the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.” The sessions focused on early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, continued breastfeeding with complementary feeding, antenatal counselling, common breastfeeding challenges and myths, family support, and the role of healthcare providers in promoting breastfeeding-friendly practices. The programme was conducted by Dr. Rajesh De, Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine and Central Council Member – East Zone, IPHA, and Mrs. Soma Rajak, Principal Nursing Officer, Nursing Training School. Educational posters, models, and awareness materials were also presented by nursing students. On 6 August 2026, an awareness programme was conducted at the Paediatric Ward for mothers, interns, students, and healthcare personnel. Health education sessions and practical demonstrations on correct positioning and attachment were conducted, along with discussions on breastfeeding practices and common myths and misconceptions. The concluding programme was held on 7 August 2026 at the Immunization Clinic, Department of Community Medicine, focusing on postnatal mothers and frontline health workers. The programme was graced by Dr. Partha Pratim Mukherjee, Principal, Malda Medical College, who delivered the inaugural health talk. Key messages on early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding, continued breastfeeding with complementary feeding, correct attachment, and counselling support were reinforced. The programmes witnessed active participation from faculty members, nursing and MBBS students, mothers, interns, and healthcare professionals. The observance successfully highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in protecting, promoting, and supporting optimal breastfeeding and infant and young child feeding practices.

The Department of Community Medicine, Diamond Harbour Government Medical College & Hospital, commenced the World Breastfeeding Week 2026 observance under the aegis of IPHA. The programme was conducted at the ART Centre and District Early Intervention Centre (DEIC). The activity focused on evidencebased breastfeeding practices among Hepatitis- and HIV-positive mothers and their families. A welcome address highlighted the importance of breastfeeding and a supportive environment for mothers. Dr. Debdutta Haldar and Dr. Sumanta Chakraborty conducted the health education session. Early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding for six months and continued breastfeeding with complementary feeding were discussed. Appropriate recommendations for breastfeeding among treated Hepatitis- and HIV-positive mothers were explained. Interns presented posters on maternal mental health, infant formula, expressed breast milk, working mothers and breastfeeding techniques. The session also addressed common myths and encouraged informed decision-making. The programme concluded successfully with active participation of mothers, caregivers, interns and healthcare professionals. The Day 2 programme was organized at the Urban Health Training Centre, Madhabpur–Pirizpur, Diamond Harbour. The programme was conducted under the aegis of IPHA and with the guidance of the Department of Community Medicine. New mothers, infants, ASHA workers, ANMs, PHNs, interns and healthcare personnel participated. Dr. Adwitiya Das delivered a health talk on the importance of breastfeeding for infant and maternal health. Correct positioning and attachment techniques were demonstrated. Dr. Anirban Chatterjee discussed early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding for six months and continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. Dr. Ritankar Pramanik addressed common myths and misconceptions regarding breastfeeding. The Medical Officer and PHN highlighted the role of primary healthcare services, counselling and community participation. Participants actively interacted, clarified their doubts and appreciated the practical demonstration. The programme successfully strengthened awareness regarding optimal breastfeeding practices and community support. The Day 3 programme was organized at the Rural Health Training Centre, Kulpi, South 24 Parganas. The programme focused on postnatal mothers and frontline health workers. Dr. Somak Majumdar conducted the principal health education session with support from Dr. Ritankar Pramanik. Early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months were emphasized. Continued breastfeeding with appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond was discussed. Correct positioning and attachment techniques were also highlighted. The session addressed common myths and encouraged consistent counselling by frontline health workers. Practical guidance was provided for overcoming common breastfeeding difficulties. Participants actively engaged in counselling, discussion and experience sharing. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a collective commitment to promoting optimal infant and young child feeding practices. The Day 4 programme was organized at the Urban Health Training Centre, Madhabpur–Pirizpur, Diamond Harbour. The activity aimed to promote breastfeeding awareness and strengthen community participation. Faculty members, postgraduate trainees, interns, nursing students, ASHAs, ANMs, PHNs, Medical Officers and community members participated. A community transect walk was conducted through nearby villages carrying World Breastfeeding Week banners and IEC materials. Participants interacted directly with local residents during the awareness activity. Key messages included early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. Continued breastfeeding with complementary feeding up to two years and beyond was also emphasized. Maternal nutrition, family support and timely utilization of maternal and child health services were highlighted. The activity successfully enhanced community awareness regarding optimal breastfeeding practices. The programme reinforced the Department's commitment to community-based maternal and child health promotion. The concluding programme was organized at Academic Building, Lecture Hall 5, Diamond Harbour Government Medical College & Hospital. A multidisciplinary panel discussion was conducted under the aegis of IPHA. The session was moderated by Dr. Somak Majumdar and included experts from Paediatrics, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Community Medicine and Psychiatry. The discussion focused on the theme “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.” Topics included exclusive breastfeeding, golden-hour initiation, antenatal counselling, formula feeding, mental health and family support. The panellists presented paediatric, obstetric, public health and psychiatric perspectives on breastfeeding. Faculty members, nursing students, interns and postgraduate trainees actively participated in the interactive session. Nursing students also presented educational posters, creative models and awareness materials on breastfeeding. The programme concluded with felicitation of the panellists and a formal vote of thanks. The concluding day successfully highlighted multidisciplinary collaboration for protecting, promoting and supporting breastfeeding.

The Department of Community Medicine, JISMSR, Santragachi, in collaboration with the Indian Public Health Association (IPHA), observed World Breastfeeding Week on 04 August 2026. A health education session was conducted for staff on the importance of breastfeeding, highlighting early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, and its benefits for both mother and child. The session concluded with an interactive discussion where participants actively engaged, shared experiences, and clarified their doubts, making the programme informative and impactful.

A Seminar and Workshop on Breastfeeding Technique was organised jointly by the Indian Public Health Association, West Bengal State Branch, and the Department of Food and Nutrition of Maharani Kasiswari College (MKC) to observe World Breastfeeding Week 2026 on 5th August 2026. The theme of this year is ‘Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works’. World Breastfeeding Week is a global campaign celebrated annually from August 1 to August 7 to raise awareness about the critical health benefits of breastfeeding for infants and mothers. The programme was inaugurated with the Welcome address by Dr.Tanima Paul , Maharani Kasiswari College followed by inaugural Address by Prof. Dr.Sima Chakrabarti, Principal Maharani Kasiswari College, Kolkata.Dr.Rama Bhunia, Assistant Director of Health Services ( Epidemiologist, IBD), Swasthyabhaban Govt. of West Bengal,Vice President IPHA, West Bengal deliberated his speech on the Theme of “World Breastfeeding Week and it's significance”. After that, Dr. Somnath Naskar,Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, IPGMER.Joint Director Prevention West Bengal State AIDS Prevention and Control Society, delivered his speech on” Benefits and guidelines of breastfeeding”.Ms. Pallabi Chatterjee Dietician,EC Member IPHA West Bengal, demonstrated correct positioning, attachment, and suckling of breast.All the delegated were then felicitated by the Principal Dr Sima Chakrabarti, MKC.A Quiz on Breastfeeding was hosted by Quiz master: Dr. Anindita Chakravarti, HOD, Food & Nutrition, Maharani Kasiswari College and all the participants actively participated in this interesting session. The programme was concluded with the closing remarks and vote of thanks by Ms.Sajida Khatun, Assistant Professor, Food & Nutrition, Maharani Kasiswari College Kolkata.

The Department of Community Medicine, Tamralipto Government Medical College and Hospital (TGMCH), under the aegis of the Indian Public Health Association – West Bengal Branch (IPHA-WB), organised a programme to commemorate World Breastfeeding Week on 5th August 2026. The programme aimed to create awareness regarding the importance of breastfeeding, promote optimal infant feeding practices, address common misconceptions, and sensitise healthcare providers and mothers regarding breastfeeding support. The programme was graced by the presence of eminent dignitaries including Prof. Indra Datta, Principal, TGMCH, Prof. Pankaj Kumar Mandal, Dean and Head of the Department of Community Medicine, TGMCH, Ms. Mahua Goswami, Nursing Superintendent, TGMCH, and Prof. Alpana Chhetri, Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, TGMCH. A total of 29 mother–child dyads attending the Immunisation Clinic of TGMCH and 22 nursing students participated in the programme. The event was anchored by Dr. Ankush Banerjee, Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, TGMCH, and Executive Committee Member, IPHA-WB Branch. Dr. Banerjee welcomed the participants, introduced the dignitaries, and coordinated the proceedings of the programme. Felicitation of the dignitaries was carried out by the faculty members of the Department of Community Medicine. The programme commenced with keynote addresses by Prof. Indra Datta, Principal, TGMCH, and Prof. Pankaj Kumar Mandal, Dean and HOD, Department of Community Medicine, who highlighted the significance of World Breastfeeding Week and discussed the key steps required to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding practices. They emphasised the importance of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary feeding, and the role of healthcare workers in counselling and supporting mothers. A series of scientific sessions were conducted as part of the awareness programme. Dr. Palash Ghosh, Senior Resident, Department of Community Medicine, TGMCH, delivered a session on “Exclusive Breastfeeding and Complementary Feeding”, where he discussed the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding, recommended feeding practices, and appropriate initiation of complementary feeding after six months of age. Dr. Jagnyaseni Maiti, Senior Resident, Department of Community Medicine, TGMCH, conducted an informative session on “Positioning and Attachment during Breastfeeding”. The session focused on correct breastfeeding techniques, identification of proper attachment, and practical guidance to mothers for successful breastfeeding. Dr. Ankita Moulik, Senior Resident, Department of Community Medicine, TGMCH, addressed the participants on “Myths Regarding Breastfeeding”. She highlighted common misconceptions related to breastfeeding and provided evidence-based information to dispel myths and encourage healthy breastfeeding practices. The interactive sessions enabled mothers to clarify their doubts regarding breastfeeding and infant feeding practices. Nursing students also gained valuable knowledge regarding their role in breastfeeding counselling and community-level promotion of breastfeeding. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Pankaj Kumar Mandal, who expressed gratitude to all dignitaries, speakers, participants, nursing students, and members of the organising team for their active involvement and contribution towards making the World Breastfeeding Week celebration successful. The event successfully achieved its objective of spreading awareness about breastfeeding practices among mothers, strengthening the knowledge of nursing students, and promoting collaborative efforts towards improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Day 1: 3rd August 2026 The Department of Community Medicine, Malda Medical College and Hospital, in collaboration with Nursing Training School, commenced the World Breastfeeding Week 2026 observance under the aegis of IPHA. The programme was conducted at the Seminar Room of the Nursing Training School of Malda Medical College. The activity constituted a CME programme focused on evidence-based breastfeeding practices among mothers and their families, and the role of healthcare providers and health setups. The discussion focused on the theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works.” Topics also included exclusive breastfeeding, golden-hour initiation, antenatal counselling, formula feeding, mental health, and family support. A welcome address highlighted the importance of breastfeeding and a supportive environment for mothers. Dr. Rajesh De, Assistant Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Malda Medical College, as well as Central Council Member – East Zone, IPHA, and Mrs. Soma Rajak, Principal Nursing Officer of Nursing Training School, Malda Medical College, organised and conducted the CME programme. Early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and continued breastfeeding with complementary feeding, challenges related to effective breastfeeding, counselling techniques for mothers as well as family members, and the role of healthcare providers in the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative were discussed. The programme was inaugurated by the Deputy CMOH-II of Malda Health District, the HoD of the Department of Community Medicine, the Principal Nursing Officer, and other respected dignitaries of Malda Medical College. Inspirational and scientifically enriched video messages from the President of IPHA, Dr. Sanghamitra Ghosh, and the Secretary General of IPHA, Prof. (Dr.) Kaushik Mitra, on the importance of observing World Breastfeeding Week and related matters were displayed as part of the inauguration of the programme. Nursing students also presented educational posters, creative models, and awareness materials on breastfeeding. The session also addressed common myths and encouraged informed decision-making. The programme concluded successfully with active participation from all faculty members of the Department of Community Medicine, Nursing Training School, MBBS and nursing students, and other healthcare professionals, followed by felicitation of the speakers and a formal vote of thanks. The programme successfully highlighted the need for multidisciplinary collaboration for protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding. Day 2: 6th August 2026 The Day 2 programme was organized at the Paediatric Ward of Malda Medical College and Hospital. The programme was conducted under the aegis of IPHA and with the guidance of the Department of Community Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, and Nursing Training School. Mothers, interns, students, and healthcare personnel participated. Dr. Rajesh De and Mrs. Soma Rajak delivered health talks on the importance of breastfeeding for infant and maternal health. Correct positioning and attachment techniques were demonstrated by nursing students. Other faculty members discussed early initiation, exclusive breastfeeding for six months, and continued breastfeeding up to two years and beyond. A role play was conducted by nursing students to address common myths and misconceptions regarding breastfeeding. Participants actively interacted, clarified their doubts, and appreciated the practical demonstration. The programme successfully strengthened awareness regarding optimal breastfeeding practices. Day 3: 7th August 2026 The Day 3 programme was organized as the concluding programme at the Immunization Clinic of the Department of Community Medicine, Malda Medical College. The programme focused on postnatal mothers and frontline health workers. Faculty members of the Nursing Training School conducted the principal health education session with support from the senior PHN and other staff members and interns of the Immunization Clinic. The programme was enriched by the gracious presence of the Principal of Malda Medical College, Dr. Partha Pratim Mukherjee. He delivered a health talk to the mothers as the inaugural speech. Early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months were emphasized. Continued breastfeeding with appropriate complementary feeding up to two years and beyond was discussed. Correct positioning and attachment techniques were also highlighted. The session addressed common myths and encouraged consistent counselling by frontline health workers. Practical guidance was provided for overcoming common breastfeeding difficulties. Participants actively engaged in counselling, discussion, and experience sharing. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a collective commitment to promoting optimal infant and young child feeding practices. The concluding day successfully highlighted multidisciplinary collaboration for protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding.

World Breastfeeding Week 2026 Celebration at Raiganj Government Medical College & Hospital In collaboration with Indian Public Health Association West Bengal state branch and HQ Raiganj Government Medical College & Hospital ,Dept of Community Medicine celebrated World Breastfeeding Week 2026 with great enthusiasm under the guidance of Principal Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar Mallick, MSVP Dr. Priyonkar Roy, Prof. (Dr.) Sanjay Kumar Saha, Head, Department of Community Medicine, and Dr. Nabarun Mandal, Head, Department of Biochemistry. The programme was attended by faculty members from the Departments of Community Medicine, Paediatrics, Biochemistry, the Assistant Superintendent, Nursing Superintendent, healthcare professionals, and mothers with their infants. A special attraction of the event was an informative and engaging drama on breastfeeding performed by the nursing students, highlighting the importance of early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding. Health education sessions emphasized the benefits of breastfeeding for both mothers and babies and encouraged family and community support. More than 50 mothers participated in the programme. Refreshments were served to all participating mothers as a token of appreciation. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks to the Chair and all dignitaries, participants, faculty members, nursing students, and healthcare staff for their wholehearted support in making the celebration a success. Together, the event reinforced the message of protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding for a healthier future.

An awareness program was conducted on 7th August at KMH, with collaboration of IPHA and khidirpur Maternity Home,kolkata at 5pm- 7pm. All the postnatal mother and family members of them participated in this program. Fourty two mother's and family members were present on this program. Given the teaching on the physiology of breast milk production, the importance of feeding breast milk for baby and mother's, how to understand baby fed properly, how to take care of engorge breast, principles of breast feeding.Demonstration was done by an individual mother on proper latching and kangaroo mother care. All sisters and administrative sisters participated in this program .

On 15 September 2026, the Department of Community Medicine at Diamond Harbour Government Medical College and Hospital, in association with the Indian Public Health Association (IPHA) West Bengal State Branch, organized an academic programme to observe Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2026. Attended by faculty, residents, and interns, the event focused on life-course nutrition and public health strategies to combat malnutrition. Four interns presented key topics: Nasrin Malita discussed antenatal nutrition, emphasizing maternal nutrient needs, IFA and folic acid supplementation, and anemia prevention; Mushkan Rahaman reviewed government nutrition initiatives, including POSHAN 2.0, PM POSHAN, and Anemia Mukt Bharat; Meghna Das presented on paediatric nutrition, focusing on exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and growth monitoring; and Md Fardeen Akhtar delivered a poster presentation on geriatric nutrition, highlighting sarcopenia prevention, hydration, and managing age-related dietary challenges. Overall, the session reinforced the importance of life-stage nutritional care, government interventions, and early screening to improve community health outcomes.

On 15 September 2026, the Department of Community Medicine at Diamond Harbour Government Medical College and Hospital, in association with the Indian Public Health Association (IPHA) West Bengal State Branch, organized an academic programme to observe Rashtriya Poshan Maah 2026. Attended by faculty, residents, and interns, the event focused on life-course nutrition and public health strategies to combat malnutrition. Four interns presented key topics: Nasrin Malita discussed antenatal nutrition, emphasizing maternal nutrient needs, IFA and folic acid supplementation, and anemia prevention; Mushkan Rahaman reviewed government nutrition initiatives, including POSHAN 2.0, PM POSHAN, and Anemia Mukt Bharat; Meghna Das presented on paediatric nutrition, focusing on exclusive breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and growth monitoring; and Md Fardeen Akhtar delivered a poster presentation on geriatric nutrition, highlighting sarcopenia prevention, hydration, and managing age-related dietary challenges. Overall, the session reinforced the importance of life-stage nutritional care, government interventions, and early screening to improve community health outcomes.