First human milk bank opens in Northeast India

Guwahati's Satribari Christian Hospital has set up Northeast India's first human milk bank.

It is widely known that breast milk is best for newborns and no other milk can substitute it.

This is because it brings down the neonatal mortality rate.

Paediatric and Neonatal Care Specialist, Dr Devajit Sarma said, "Breast milk is the best food for the new-born babies as it brings down cases of neonatal mortality and mortality below 5 years of age." Explaining the procedure, Sarma said, "We can collect milk from mothers who are willing to donate, pasteurize and store it for up to six months."