Parliamentary panel calls for policy to curb abuse of antibiotics

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The Parliamentary Standing Committee highlighted the rampant misuse, overuse and abuse of antibiotics, warning that this has led to widespread drug resistance across the country.

“The rapid and indiscriminate use of antibiotics is a serious concern. If not controlled, the long-term effects of drug resistance will cripple public health. To restore natural immunity and gut health, urgent action is needed to curb antibiotic misuse,” the committee stated.

The panel recommended integrating AMR awareness into the medical curriculum to sensitise doctors about the dangers of antibiotic overuse. It also called on the Department of Health Research (DHR) to work with the relevant ministries to draft a comprehensive national policy, focusing on preventing antibiotic misuse and restoring national immune health.

The committee acknowledged the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for its contributions to India’s One Health approach, which integrates human, animal and environmental health surveillance. It also recognised ICMR’s research efforts on various health challenges, including acute myocardial infarction in young populations, infertility, early puberty, ageing-related issues and rare diseases like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Rabies.

According to the report, under the National Health Research Programme, Rs 5.29 crore has been allocated to ICMR’s AMR surveillance in secondary care hospitals.

“The committee believes that research findings will aid in shaping policies and programmes to mitigate antimicrobial resistance. It hopes that ICMR’s AMR surveillance network and guidelines will raise awareness about the rising levels of drug resistance in India,” the report noted.

Beyond AMR, the committee also urged the Health Ministry to take stronger measures to reduce healthcare costs.

“Despite numerous government initiatives, healthcare remains expensive. The committee recommends continued efforts to lower costs, especially for critical treatments like cancer care and heart, spine and brain implants. Ensuring affordability is crucial to protect middle-class and poor households from financial distress,” it stated.

The panel’s recommendations emphasise the urgent need for policy-driven interventions to curb AMR and make healthcare more accessible and affordable for all citizens.