Who is Dr. Armida Fernandez and why is she famous?

Dr. Armida Fernandez is a neonatologist known for establishing Asia's first human milk bank in 1989 and is considered the 'mother of Indian neonatology'.

What significant contributions did Dr. Armida Fernandez make?

She established Asia's first human milk bank, introduced early doctoral programs in neonatology, and founded the NGO SNEHA to extend healthcare to Mumbai's slum communities.

What is SNEHA, and what does it do?

SNEHA is an urban health NGO founded by Dr. Armida Fernandez, which focuses on maternal and newborn health, violence prevention, and adolescent health in Mumbai's slum communities.

Home / Health / Padma Shri Award for Asia's First Human Milk Bank Founder

Padma Shri Award for Asia's First Human Milk Bank Founder

26 Jan

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Summary

Dr. Armida Fernandez established Asia's first human milk bank in 1989.
She is recognized as the 'mother of Indian neonatology'.
Her NGO, SNEHA, has expanded healthcare to Mumbai's slum communities.

Padma Shri Award for Asia's First Human Milk Bank Founder

Dr. Armida Fernandez, a celebrated neonatologist, has been awarded the Padma Shri for her groundbreaking contributions to healthcare in India.

In 1989, Dr. Fernandez established Asia's first human milk bank at Lokmanya Tilak Municipal General Hospital, a pioneering initiative that played a vital role in reducing infant mortality.

Recognized as the 'mother of Indian neonatology,' her career features many firsts, including introducing India's early doctoral programs in the field. She also served as dean of Sion Hospital.