A senior paediatrician from the city has been appointed to international code committee of the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA).
Dr Rajinder Gulati, senior paediatrician, lactation consultant and breastfeeding advocate, will serve on the committee from 2026 to 2028.
He is currently the only representative from India on the committee, which includes experts committed to advancing breastfeeding and skilled lactation care from various countries. A former senior medical officer, Dr Gulati has devoted over four decades to improving maternal and child health through care, training, advocacy and education.
He talks to Manav Mander about the achievement and importance of breastfeeding.
What is the ILCA international code committee?
It is a global body within the ILCA that raises awareness on and helps in implementation of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) international code of marketing of breast milk substitutes. The committee advises on policies, resources and partnerships to ensure ethical breastfeeding promotion worldwide.
What does your appointment to the committee mean?
It is a chance to contribute to global efforts to protect, promote and support breastfeeding. I am honoured to represent India on this international platform.
What is your role in infant feeding training?
I have trained thousands of grassroots workers and healthcare professionals in breastfeeding support and infant and young child feeding. I have contributed to national training initiatives as a member of a consultative committee on it.
Why is breast milk called ‘nature’s first vaccine’?
Breast milk, especially colostrum or the first milk, is rich in antibodies and other protective factors that help protect newborns from infections like diarrhoea, pneumonia and ear infections. It supports development of the infant’s immune system from the very first hour of life.
What makes exclusive breastfeeding crucial for first six months?
Exclusive breastfeeding means giving only breast milk, with no water, honey, formula or other foods or liquids for the first six months of life. It provides nutrition, supports optimal growth and brain development, and reduces the risk of infections and malnutrition.
What message would you like to give to healthcare professionals?
Breastfeeding support is a shared responsibility. Every healthcare professional can play an important role in helping mothers initiate and continue breastfeeding through accurate information, practical support and adherence to the international code.
