JP Nadda Launches National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance 2025–29
In his address, Shri Nadda emphasized that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern that threatens the effectiveness of life-saving treatments.
- Country:
- India
Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, today launched the second version of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR 2025–29), reaffirming India’s commitment to tackling one of the most pressing global health challenges. The launch event was attended by senior officials including Dr A K Sood, Principal Scientific Advisor; Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary; Dr Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research; and Dr Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services (DGHS).
AMR: A Growing Global Threat
In his address, Shri Nadda emphasized that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health concern that threatens the effectiveness of life-saving treatments. He noted that AMR poses serious risks in surgical procedures, cancer therapies, and critical healthcare interventions. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics, both in human health and agriculture, has accelerated the problem, making corrective measures urgent.
Tracing the journey, he recalled that discussions on AMR began in 2010, leading to the launch of the first National Action Plan on AMR in 2017. The new plan builds on lessons learned, addressing gaps and strengthening India’s preparedness.
📑 Key Features of NAP-AMR 2.0 (2025–29)
The second action plan introduces several new strategies to counter AMR:
- Enhanced ownership of AMR-related efforts across ministries and institutions
- Stronger inter-sectoral coordination between health, agriculture, environment, and industry
- Private sector engagement to ensure responsible practices in pharmaceuticals and healthcare delivery
- Awareness, education, and training programs for healthcare professionals and the public
- Improved laboratory capacity for surveillance and diagnostics
- Stricter infection control measures in hospitals and clinics
- Regular stakeholder meetings to monitor progress and resolve challenges
Shri Nadda stressed that AMR containment requires collective action, compassion, and responsibility from all stakeholders.
🧪 India’s Leadership in AMR Containment
Dr A K Sood highlighted that the launch coincides with the World Health Organization’s World AMR Awareness Week (18–24 November), underscoring India’s global leadership in this area. He described AMR as a “pandemic-like challenge” affecting many countries, particularly in Asia and Africa.
India has already taken pioneering steps:
- Kerala and Gujarat became the first states to ban over-the-counter sales of antibiotics.
- Certain antimicrobials and pesticides have been banned for use in crops to prevent resistance.
- The India AMR Innovation Hub was established, involving national and international stakeholders to foster innovation, mobilize resources, and build collaborative technology platforms.
🏥 Multi-Sectoral Approach
The NAP-AMR 2.0 is designed to be cross-cutting, involving multiple ministries such as:
- Health and Family Welfare – for clinical practices and hospital infection control
- Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare – to regulate antibiotic use in livestock and crops
- Environment and Forests – to monitor pharmaceutical waste and environmental contamination
- Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology – to encourage innovation in new drugs and diagnostics
This integrated approach ensures that AMR containment is not limited to healthcare but extends to food safety, environment, and industry.
📊 Global Context
AMR is recognized by the WHO, FAO, and OIE as one of the top 10 global health threats. Without urgent action, common infections could become untreatable, and routine medical procedures could carry life-threatening risks. India, with its large population and diverse healthcare challenges, plays a critical role in shaping global AMR strategies.
The launch of NAP-AMR 2.0 (2025–29) marks a decisive step in India’s fight against antimicrobial resistance. By strengthening surveillance, promoting responsible antibiotic use, and fostering innovation, India aims to safeguard public health and contribute to global efforts against AMR.
Shri Nadda concluded by reaffirming that the success of this plan depends on collective responsibility, inter-sectoral collaboration, and sustained commitment from all stakeholders—government, private sector, healthcare professionals, and citizens alike.
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