Antimicrobial Resistance Demands Collective Action, Says PCI President Dr. Montu Kumar M. Patel

Sri Vasavi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences hosted a state level awareness programme in Tadepalligudem, featuring a public rally, scientific competitions and discussions on responsible antibiotic use.

Antimicrobial Resistance Demands Collective Action, Says PCI President Dr. Montu Kumar M. Patel
Tadepalligudem, November 6, 2026: Dr. Montu Kumar M. Patel, President of the Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), has called for coordinated action by pharmacists, doctors, healthcare professionals, educational institutions and the public to address the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
He was speaking at a state level awareness programme organised at Sri Vasavi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tadepalligudem, on November 6.
The programme, conducted under the aegis of the Pharmacy Council of India, focused on the theme “Swasth Bharat – Elimination of Antimicrobial Resistance.”

State Coordinator Dr. S. Vidyadhar attended the event, which brought together pharmacy professionals, academicians, faculty members and students.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Patel explained that inappropriate and excessive use of antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines contributes to the development of drug resistant microorganisms.
He noted that antimicrobial resistance makes infections more difficult to treat and presents a serious challenge to public health.
Dr. Patel urged pharmacists and other healthcare professionals to educate communities about responsible medicine use and the risks associated with antimicrobial resistance.
He emphasised that addressing the issue requires participation from healthcare institutions, pharmacy professionals and the wider public rather than relying on individual efforts alone.

As part of the awareness initiative, organisers conducted a public rally through Tadepalligudem town.
The rally aimed to inform residents about antimicrobial resistance and encourage greater awareness of appropriate medication practices.
The formal programme was held at the YNS Auditorium on the Sri Vasavi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences campus.
Dr. S. Vidyadhar delivered the inaugural address and paid tribute to the late Dr. C.K. Kokate for his contributions to the pharmacy profession.
He discussed the importance of promoting rational antimicrobial use and the responsibility of pharmacy institutions in educating students and communities about the issue.
V.V. Subba Rao, Secretary of Vasavi Educational Society, welcomed the opportunity to host the programme at the institution.
He noted that such academic initiatives allow students to interact with experienced professionals, develop their scientific understanding and participate in public health awareness activities.

Programme Convener Dr. M. Niranjan Babu discussed the need for community education on antimicrobial resistance.
He explained that the programme sought to increase awareness among pharmacy students, healthcare professionals and members of the public while encouraging responsible use of medicines.
Co Convener Dr. D. Narendra acknowledged the participation of pharmacy professionals, academicians and students from different parts of Andhra Pradesh.
He noted that the event provided opportunities for discussion and exchange of knowledge on antimicrobial resistance.
The organisers also conducted quizzes, poster presentations and scientific competitions to encourage students to examine healthcare challenges through research and academic activities.
Students participated in the competitions, presenting their understanding of antimicrobial resistance and related public health concerns.

The programme was attended by Dr. P. Sathyamurthy, Chairman, PCI ICT; S.L.N. Prasad Reddy, PCI Member; P. Rambabu, President of the Andhra Pradesh Pharmacy Council; and Dr. V. Bhaskar Raju, Principal of Sri Vasavi Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Faculty members, pharmacy students and other invited guests were also present.
The event concluded with a felicitation ceremony for distinguished guests.
Winners of the student competitions received cash prizes and certificates in recognition of their performance.
The awareness programme brought together professional discussions, student participation and public outreach to draw attention to antimicrobial resistance and the need for responsible use of medicines.

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