Noble Hospitals and Research Centre launches Lactation Helpline to promote exclusive Breastfeeding
Pune, 1st August 2026: In an effort to promote exclusive breastfeeding and address various issues faced by lactating mothers during the crucial first few days, Noble Hospitals and Research Centre has launched a unique ‘Lactation Helpline’. The 24 hour helpline is open to all. The initiative was launched at a special event organized at Noble Hospital to mark the ‘ World Breastfeeding Week’ at the hands of Sonia Agrawal Konjeti, Founder PULA ladies.
Dr. Dilip Mane Chairman and Managing Director, Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, Dr. Sanjay Pathare, Group Executive Officer, Dr. P. D. Pote, Head of the Department of Paediatrics; Dr. H. K. Sale, Director; Dr. B. S. Duggal, Director, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology; Dr. Manisha Pathak, Director Medical Services , Dr Abhay Mahindre, HoD NICU, Dr. Sangeeta Kharate, Senior Lactation Consultant, Dr.Anil Khamkar, Academic Head and Senior Consultant NICU, Dr.Sumit Bhavsar, Neonatologist were present on the occasion.
While the awareness regarding exclusive breastfeeding is increasing, the latest data from the latest National Family Health Survey (NFHS-6), exclusive breastfeeding rates among infants under six months have dropped from 63.7% to 55.8%.
Dr. Abhay Mahindre Head of the NICU Department at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that there are many challenges faced by mothers regarding breastfeeding in the crucial first days. If not addressed they may shift to other modes . But the first six months of exclusive breastfeeding is extremely crucial for the child as it becomes the foundation of the future health of the baby. Some of the immediate problems include latching, tongue tie ( ankyloglossia) etc , while many of the problems are behavioural or anxiety related also. Some of these immediate requirements can be addressed starting with the lactation helpline and that can be followed up with consultation or visit to clinic if needed.
Dr. Mahindre added that the Lactation helpline is well supported by certified lactation counsellors many of whom are nurses and team leaders. Currently a strong team of 16 such professionals will handle the initiative with 3-4 of them available at any given point of time.
Dr.Dilip Mane, Chairman and Managing Director, Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that In the past, joint families and elders played an important role in helping mothers navigate breastfeeding and newborn care. However, with the growing prevalence of nuclear families, many parents now lack that immediate support. Recognising this need, we have launched this helpline to offer expert guidance and assistance for all breastfeeding-related queries and concerns.”
Speaking about this initiative Dr.Divij Mane , Dy.Managing Director , Noble Hospitals and Research Centre said that this is Pune’s first dedicated breastfeeding helpline, created to provide timely guidance and support to new mothers. Mothers need the right guidance during the early days, and this helpline aims to bridge that gap by providing expert advice, reassurance, and timely support whenever it is needed,
Sonia Agrawal Konjeti said, “Breastfeeding is a completely natural process, and no mother should hesitate to seek guidance if she has any questions or concerns so that they can receive the right support and ensure the healthy growth and well-being of their babies.”
The inaugural session was followed by an interactive session with the questions from the participating mothers addressed by Dr. Sangeeta Kharate, Dr. Santosh Sidid, Dr. Abhay Mahindre, Dr. Anil Khamkar; and Dr.Sumit Bhavsar. Nurses managing the lactation helpline were also felicitated for their contribution.
