'Only awareness can tackle AMR issue'
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, October 19 2026: Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) Central Council Member Dr Shrikant Vijayrao Joshi has said Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) is a major issue for the country and it can be tackled only by spreading awareness among the public.

He was speaking at the observance of National Pharmacy Week 2026 organised jointly by College of Pharmacy, Kangleipak Medical and Nursing Institute and Pharmacy Council of India at MSFDS Hall, Palace Compound today.

Dr Joshi said PCI has initiated a mission mode programme to tackle AMR and 40 different programmes are being planned, of which 3 have been implemented and 37 are in the pipeline.

He said unauthorised prescription and self-medication are prevalent in different parts of the country which is not permissible under law and PCI has urged the concerned authorities to take strong action.

Use of medicines without authorised prescription is a crime and can invite punishment as per law, he said.

He said under National Education Policy 2020, pharmacy students are being encouraged tp integrate traditional learning practices along with western learning.

Controller of Examination, Khongnangthaba University, Prof N Ibotombi; Director of Health Services Manipur, Dr N Hemantakumar; Registrar cum Secretary, Ladakh Pharmacy Council Administration, UT Ladakh, Mohd Bashir; PCI Central Council Member, Dr Nepram Swarnalata; teachers and staff of College of Pharmacy, Kangleipak Medical and Nursing Institute and students from different pharmacy colleges and institutes attended the programme.

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