DHAKA: Health Minister Mohammad Nasim on Tuesday observed that the 6-month maternity leave have been implemented in the government sectors but it is being ignored in the private sectors.

The health minister came up with the assertion at a press conference at the health ministry office marking ‘World Breastfeed Week’ on Tuesday.

He said some 68 percent babies who are under six-month were given breastfeed but only 21 percent babies were given accurate extra food.

According to the Millennium Development Goal, the percentage of breastfeeding increased from 47 to 68 percent in country and more new mothers were given special treatment than the previous years.

But some 53 minors per 1000 died before the age of five years and 23 children per 1000 died before the age of one.    

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will join in an inaugural program as chief guest at 10:30am Wednesday at Osmani Auditorium in city to mark the World Breastfed Week.

Health secretary Niaz Uddin, Bangladesh Breastfeeding Foundation chairman Dr SK Roy and IPHN director Dr Shah Newaz were among others present at the press meet.

BDST: 1705 HRS, AUG 5, 2014