Nepal's breastfeeding reform set back after protest fires destroy key proposal

A key proposal to support breastfeeding mothers in Nepal has been lost after violent protests destroyed government records. The draft law, which included six months of paid leave for new mothers, was set to replace outdated regulations from 1992. Officials now face a major setback in efforts to improve child health. The Ministry of Health and Population had prepared a new law to update the Mother’s Milk Substitutes (Control of Sale and Distribution) Act-1992. The proposal aimed to grant working mothers six months of leave, encouraging exclusive breastfeeding. Studies show this practice reduces illness risks for babies, yet rates in Nepal have fallen from 70% in 2011 to 56% in 2022.

The draft was developed with national and international support as part of broader public health reforms. It was sent to the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs for review. After receiving feedback, the proposal was nearly ready for submission to the Council of Ministers. In September, widespread Gen Z protests turned violent, killing 77 people and causing massive property damage. Protesters set fire to government buildings, including the Ministry of Health and Population. The blaze destroyed the only copy of the proposal, with no digital backup available.

The loss of the draft law delays efforts to improve breastfeeding rates and child health. Without the proposal, working mothers may continue to face challenges in accessing adequate leave. Officials must now restart the process from scratch to reintroduce the reforms.