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INTRODUCTION Breastfeeding is essential for optimal growth and development of newborns. Various biological, psychological and socioeconomic factors play a role in breastfeeding initiation, exclusivity and continuation. AIMS & OBJECTIVES To compare the prevalence of early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding following caesarean and vaginal deliveries up to 3 months post-partum and to identify factors affecting breastfeeding practices. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a prospective study carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Department of Paediatrics, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi over a period of 3 months from July 2023 to September 2023. Participants were interviewed on day 1, day 3, 6 weeks and 3 months postpartum and the socio demographic, mental health, and health services data was obtained on a structured proforma. Descriptive analysis was done and the association of the independent and socio-demographic variables with early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding was evaluated. RESULT Exclusive breastfeeding was practiced by 79%, 55%, and 58.4% of women after caesarean delivery and 90%, 74.3%, and 71.6% after vaginal delivery on day 3, 6 weeks, and 3 months, respectively (p<0.001). Late initiation of breastfeeding was linked to delivery mode (caesarean vs. vaginal, p<0.001), child weight ?2.5 kg (p<0.001), preterm birth (p<0.001), and higher parity (p<0.05). Age and education showed no effect on early breastfeeding initiation. Preterm or small-for-gestational-age infants and delayed initiation (>4 hours) were associated with reduced exclusive breastfeeding at 6 weeks (p<0.001). CONCLUSION The study suggests that institutions need to put extra efforts to improve and promote early initiation and maintenance of breast feeding after caesarean deliveries as these deliveries are associated with more difficulties in initiation, maintenance, and exclusivity of breastfeeding.