"Janani Suraksha": Nurturing the Mother, Empowering the Child
Building upon the foundational work of "Matritva Ki Chhav Mein," the Shyama Foundation presents "Janani Suraksha" (Mother's Protection)—a critical mission dedicated to supporting lactating mothers from underprivileged families. This initiative recognizes that the health of a child is inseparable from the well-being of the mother, particularly during the crucial postnatal period.
We fundamentally reject the idea that a mother must choose between her needs and those of her infant. Our core belief is simple: When a mother is healthy, the child will be healthier.
Mission Pillars: Nutrition, Care, and Dignity
"Janani Suraksha" operates on a comprehensive model that addresses the immediate physical needs of the mother while also providing the educational tools necessary for long-term health and empowered motherhood.
1. Ensuring Optimal Nutrition Access
The period of lactation places immense demands on a mother's body, which is often severely depleted after childbirth. Our goal is to ensure mothers receive the essential nutrients required for their recovery and for producing healthy breast milk.
- Nutritional Food Kits: We provide carefully curated food kits designed to meet the high caloric and nutrient needs of lactating mothers. These kits include staples such as:
- Pulses and Cereals: For protein and sustained energy.
- Local Superfoods (Millets): Rich in fiber, iron, and complex carbohydrates, aligned with local dietary practices.
- Essential Supplements: Critical for maternal recovery and preventing common deficiencies, the kits also contain necessary Iron & Calcium Supplements.
2. Comprehensive Health Education and Awareness
Lack of information, often compounded by cultural myths, prevents mothers from adopting the best postnatal and breastfeeding practices. We bridge this knowledge gap through culturally sensitive, locally accessible campaigns.
- Local Language Campaigns: All educational materials and sessions are conducted in the mothers’ local language to ensure maximum understanding and adoption.
- Focus Areas: Our campaigns are structured around three vital components of postnatal care:
- Postnatal Nutrition: Educating mothers on balancing their diet for recovery and optimal milk production.
- The Importance of Breastfeeding: Promoting exclusive and sustained breastfeeding practices, highlighting its critical role in infant immunity and bonding.
- Maternal Mental Health: Addressing the often-unspoken challenges of anxiety and postnatal depression, and creating a supportive environment that acknowledges the mother’s emotional dignity and need for care.
- Essential Supplements: Critical for maternal recovery and preventing common deficiencies, the kits also contain necessary Iron & Calcium Supplements.
3. Fostering Dignity and Community Support
Beyond supplies and information, the initiative restores dignity to the mother by recognizing her immense contribution to the family and community. By involving community health workers, we build a local network of support.
Shyama Foundation's commitment through "Janani Suraksha" is to uplift the mother first, securing not only her well-being but laying the vital biological and developmental groundwork for a healthier, more prosperous generation.