Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) is moving forward with a progressive and compassionate initiative to establish a dedicated breastfeeding center on the temple premises.
This decision, announced by Chief Administrator Dr.Arabinda Kumar Padhee, is a response to the long-standing demand for a safe, private, and hygienic space for nursing mothers who visit the shrine with their infants.
The breastfeeding center will be located near the SJTA’s branch office on the temple complex. This central location will make it easily accessible for a large number of devotee.
The SJTA Chief has emphasized that the facility will prioritize privacy, hygiene, and comfort for both mothers and children.
To ensure smooth operations and provide assistance, a dedicated female assistant will be appointed to manage the room and support nursing mothers.
This initiative aligns with a growing movement in India to create more mother-and-child-friendly public spaces. It follows the lead of other prominent sites, such as the Taj Mahal, which opened its first breastfeeding room in 2019.
Odisha Government itself has also recently begun to roll out similar public breastfeeding centers in places like Bhubaneswar, following a directive from the Deputy Chief Minister, Shrimati Pravati Parida.
The move highlights a thoughtful approach by the SJTA and its Chief Administrator, Dr.Padhee, to address the practical needs of devotees and create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone, particularly for women and families.