Mohali:In a remarkable achievement formaternal and child healthcare, Dr B R Ambedkar State Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS), Mohali, has earned Breastfeeding-Friendly Hospital Accreditation under the prestigious Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI)—making it the only state government medical college in India to receive this honour. Until now, Command Hospital, Pune, was the only government hospital to be BFHI-accredited. AIMS Mohali’s inclusion makes it a trailblazer in state-run medical education and hospital care. Also Read:Delhi AIIMS launches Payodhi milk bank for critically ill preterm babies The assessment was conducted by the Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India (BPNI), the nationally authorised body for BFHI accreditation. Dr Arun Gupta, BPNI’s Central Coordinator and a pioneer of India’s breastfeeding movement, ensured the implementation of stringent WHO standards during the evaluation process. The evaluation included an on-site inspection on August 5, 2025, led by Dr Rajinder Gulati, MD, FIAP, a certified lactation consultant and former president of the Human Milk Bank Association of India (2022–23). The team praised AIMS Mohali’s doctors, paramedics, and support staff for their exemplary implementation of the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. This milestone reflects the vision and leadership of Prof (Dr) Bhavneet Bharti, Director Principal of AIMS Mohali. Dr Bharti previously spearheaded the establishment of Punjab’s first human milk bank, the Ashneer Milk Bank, with support from the Rotary Club. She also secured funding from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to develop a national hub-and-spoke model for human milk banks. Also Read:Hyderabad: Human milk bank launched at KIMS Cuddles Dr Bharti noted that the journey was challenging but made possible by the tireless work of the breastfeeding committee. "The dedication of our local champions providing 24/7 support to mothers and newborns has made this milestone possible," she said, reportsTOI. This landmark accreditation not only aligns with global benchmarks set by the WHO and the Government of India but also reinforces AIMS Mohali’s leading role in promoting maternal and child health, in tandem with the pioneering efforts of BPNI and Dr Arun Gupta.