# Exclusive breastfeeding rate drops in India despite early initiation gains 2026-08-12T19:51:30+00:00 | Health & Science | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet India's exclusive breastfeeding rate for infants under six months fell from 63.7% in NFHS-5 to 55.8% in NFHS-6, even as early initiation within one hour of birth improved from 41.8% to 50.1%, according to the latest National Family Health Survey data released during World Breastfeeding Week 2026. Experts say the gap shows mothers struggle to sustain breastfeeding after leaving healthcare facilities, with caesarean deliveries, inadequate lactation counselling, lack of home support, and return-to-work difficulties cited as key factors. Karnataka bucked the national trend, with exclusive breastfeeding rising marginally from 61.0% to 61.6%. However, early initiation in the state dipped from 49.1% to 48.3%. Paediatricians and lactation consultants stress that breastfeeding requires a support system encompassing family, healthcare professionals, and workplaces. Over 90% of working women in the informal sector lack paid maternity leave. Maternal nutrition also needs attention, as prolonged depletion can cause anaemia and fatigue. ## Coverage - thehindu.com - thehindu.com Tags: breastfeeding, child nutrition, Karnataka, maternal health, NFHS-6, World Breastfeeding Week Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/exclusive-breastfeeding-rate-drops-in-india-despite-early-initiation-gains/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/exclusive-breastfeeding-rate-drops-in-india-despite-early-initiation-gains/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.