Rethinking Our Public Places To Make More Inclusive For Mothers With Infants
Womenhood & Motherhood
As on today, even though society has progressed a lot still our public places lack facilities for feeding zones which shall be a non negotiable in public space in my opinion.
National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) study in 2022, found that less than 10 % of public places in India had designated breastfeeding rooms.
The lack of dedicated breastfeeding spaces in public areas is evident. It is a grim reality for millions of women who, when travelling for work or emergencies, struggle to find a safe, hygienic and dignified place to feed their infants.
Public spaces that require feeding zones
I feel places common public places like Transport stations, railway stations, bus terminals, Workplaces, Markets, Shopping malls, Government offices, Parks, Gardens, Airports etc. Also busy areas such as public streets, famous tourist places should have feeding zones at regular distance to meet the needs of mothers including visitors and workers. Apart from above I feel that schools should mandatorily have feeding zones for staff, parents, visitors. This will also serve awareness purpose this reducing taboo among the next generation.
Due to lack of space, social stigma, judgements, harassment, indiscrimination (especially for daily wage workers, street vendors, labourers), disapproving glances by most people, affects the health of both the baby and the mother. In our society it is considered a taboo, still seen as inappropriate in public spaces, embarrassment to mothers, reinforcing the cultural contradiction in Indiaās perspective on womanhood and motherhood.
Thus by making lactation places we can ensure dignity, autonomy for women, public health & hygiene as well as comfort for mothers and infants. It is not a luxury but rather a fundamental requirement. Breastfeeding is a must and a foundation step in taking care of a new baby. So having feeding zones, it will be a beacon of hope for millions of mothers in India, promising a future where breastfeeding is seen for what it truly is a natural, essential biological act and protected act of care and nourishment.
Womenhood and motherhood are the foundations of human civilization which shall be respected and revered not merely by words but creating space for each and every mother.
__Rupak Yadav (Ishtakrit’s Maa ą¤®ą¤¾ą¤ ā¤ļø)
Features
https://thebetterindia.com/web-stories/world-breastfeeding-week-mothers-demand-public-spaces-that-need-feeding-zones-offices-stations-malls/: MOTHERHOOD- Thoughts Along Journey
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