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Breastfeeding in 2026: Paediatrician Dr R.K. Thapar explains how urban Indian parents are rethinking old expectations
From social media to formula feeding, modern parenting is changing breastfeeding choices. A paediatrician explains why awareness alone may not be enough.
Today’s generation of parents is more informed about health and parenting than ever before. With access to pregnancy apps, parenting groups, lactation consultants and telemedicine, families have more information and resources at their fingertips. However, greater awareness does not always translate into sustained breastfeeding practices. (Also read: Man shares how he lost 19 kg and reversed fatty liver in 6 months by skipping breakfast: ‘My first meal is at 2 PM’ )
More parents are informed, but breastfeeding rates tell a different story
According to the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6, 2023–24), infant breastfeeding rates increased from 41.8% in NFHS-5 to 50.1%, with improvements in institutional deliveries and postnatal care contributing to the rise. However, exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months declined from 63.7% to 55.8%, even as timely complementary feeding increased from 45.9% to 59.5%.
The trend reflects a broader global challenge. According to the WHO and UNICEF’s 2024 World Breastfeeding Week report, global exclusive breastfeeding rates reached 48%, but many women continue to face barriers, including inadequate workplace support, limited access to skilled professional guidance and misinformation.
Dr Rajeev Kumar Thapar, Professor & Head, Department of Paediatrics, Sharda Hospital & Sharda School of Medical Sciences and Research, shared with HT Lifestyle that modern parenting has changed the way families approach infant feeding.
“Today’s parents have greater access to information than ever before. However, awareness does not always guarantee action. Modern parenting has given families greater access to information, but it has also exposed them to myths and conflicting advice,” Dr Thapar said.
Why breastfeeding choices are changing
Busy schedules, early return to work, changing lifestyles, social media misinformation and the growing availability of formula feeding are influencing how mothers approach infant feeding.
“Families are making their own informed decisions, but it is important that these decisions continue to be guided by scientific evidence rather than convenience, social media trends or myths,” Dr Thapar said.
Breastfeeding offers benefits beyond providing nutrition. According to WHO and UNICEF, breastfeeding can begin within the first hour after birth, while exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months can help protect infants against infections, gastroenteritis and respiratory illnesses. Breastfeeding, along with appropriate complementary foods, is recommended up to two years of age or beyond.
The first few days can make a difference
Many mothers stop breastfeeding not necessarily because they want to, but because they do not receive timely support. Difficulties with latching, concerns about milk supply, pain, Caesarean deliveries and premature births can create anxiety during the early postnatal period.
“Breastfeeding remains the gold standard for infant nutrition, and every mother deserves timely guidance and a supportive environment to continue this journey with confidence,” Dr Thapar said.
Hospitals can play an important role in supporting mothers during this period. Early skin-to-skin contact, lactation counselling and continued assistance from trained healthcare professionals can help mothers overcome initial difficulties and build confidence.
The improvement in early breastfeeding initiation reflected in NFHS-6 also highlights the role that breastfeeding-friendly hospital practices and structured counselling can play.
Can mothers breastfeed when they are sick?
A common misconception is that mothers should stop breastfeeding whenever they fall ill. However, this is not generally necessary for common illnesses such as a cold, seasonal flu, viral infections or a low-grade fever.
Breast milk contains antibodies and other immune factors that can help protect babies from infections. However, certain medical conditions, including untreated tuberculosis or the use of specific medications, may require temporary interruption or medical advice.
Mothers who are unwell should therefore consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to their feeding routine.
Breastfeeding and early brain development
The first few years of life are considered an important period for brain development. Breast milk contains nutrients including fats and DHA, along with bioactive components that support the developing brain, vision and nervous system.
Research has associated breastfeeding with benefits related to cognitive development, learning and language, while also supporting bonding between mother and baby. Breastfeeding has also been linked to a lower risk of certain health conditions, including childhood obesity and diabetes.
“India has made progress in early initiation of breastfeeding, but the decline in exclusive breastfeeding highlights the need for stronger support from families, healthcare institutions and workplaces,” Dr Thapar said.
Breastfeeding needs a support system
Breastfeeding is not simply an individual choice made by a mother in isolation. It is also influenced by the environment around her, including family support, healthcare services and workplace policies.
“Every mother deserves timely guidance and a supportive environment to continue this journey with confidence. When families, healthcare professionals and workplaces work together, we give every child the healthiest possible start in life,” Dr Thapar said.
Supporting breastfeeding mothers could include breastfeeding-friendly hospitals, access to trained lactation consultants, flexible workplace policies and practical support at home.
“Breastfeeding is not just a personal decision for parents but also a matter of public health. When breastfeeding becomes a shared responsibility rather than an individual problem for a mother, every child has an easier start,” Dr Thapar said.
Dr R.K. Thapar is a paediatrician and currently serves as Professor & Head of the Department of Paediatrics and Neonatology at Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh. With over 30 years of experience, he specialises in paediatrics and neonatology. He completed his MBBS from Guru Gobind Singh Medical College, Faridkot, Punjab, followed by an MD in Paediatrics from Army Hospital, Delhi University.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
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