A breast milk donation initiative at Ahmedabad’s Civil Hospital has benefitted 451 newborn babies by collecting 434 liters of human milk from 2,042 mothers. The ‘Ma Vatsalya Milk Bank’ at the hospital, operational since August 28, 2025, aims to provide essential nutrition to premature and critically ill infants whose mothers are unable to breastfeed.
The neonatal care teams in the hospital’s intensive care units have been instrumental in supporting this program. Dr. Sucheta Munshi, overseeing the milk bank, emphasized the critical role of breast milk in newborn development and survival, especially in vulnerable cases. She highlighted that 2,042 mothers have donated a total of 434 liters of breast milk, benefiting not only their own babies but also other infants in need.
Hospital authorities underscored the significance of this program in neonatal intensive care, particularly for low birth weight and premature infants requiring prolonged hospital stays. Several cases were cited to demonstrate the positive impact of the initiative, such as Manjulaben, Krishnaben, and Punitaben, who donated significant amounts of breast milk to support their babies’ recovery and growth.
Civil Superintendent Dr. Rakesh Joshi praised the initiative as a blend of medical necessity and social responsibility, emphasizing the positive outcomes achieved through government support and community involvement. Doctors at the hospital reiterated the crucial role of breast milk in enhancing immunity and promoting the overall development of newborns, especially those in need of specialized care.
