National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance 2025-29

Introduction to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

The recent launch of the second version of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR) for 2025–29 by the Union Health Minister signifies India's commitment to tackling the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance. This updated plan aims to fortify the nation's response to this growing health threat.

Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when pathogens like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites become unresponsive to antimicrobial treatments. This resistance results in the ineffectiveness of antibiotics and other therapeutic agents, complicating infection management.

Causes of AMR

• Overuse and misuse of antibiotics in humans
• Misuse of antimicrobials in agriculture and animal husbandry
• Poor infection control practices in healthcare
• Inadequate sanitation and hygiene
• Incomplete medication courses

Impact of AMR

AMR not only renders medications ineffective but also leads to prolonged illnesses, increased mortality rates, and a higher potential for disease transmission. Additionally, it elevates healthcare costs and poses a threat to global health security.

Background of NAP-AMR

India's first National Action Plan on AMR was launched in 2017, aligning with the Global Action Plan (GAP). The development of NAP-AMR 2.0 commenced in 2022, incorporating extensive consultations across various sectors to effectively address the escalating AMR crisis in India.

Key Features of NAP-AMR 2.0 (2025–29)

• Sector-Specific Action Plans: The new plan delineates action plans for human health, animal health, environmental sectors, food, and industry, complete with goals, timelines, and budget allocations.
• Strengthening Awareness & Education: It encompasses awareness initiatives, structured training programs, and capacity building across healthcare, veterinary, and environmental domains.
• Enhancing Laboratory Capacity: The aim is to improve surveillance systems, expand laboratory networks, and bolster diagnostic capabilities for nationwide AMR monitoring.
• Improving Infection Prevention & Control: The focus is on enhancing infection control measures in healthcare settings, sanitation practices, and waste management in hospitals.
• Multi-Sectoral Coordination: The updated plan fosters better coordination among various ministries and sectors while encouraging involvement from private hospitals, NGOs, and educational institutions.
• Ministry-Level Implementation Mandate: Each ministry is tasked with creating its own implementation roadmap, collaborating with private sectors, industry bodies, civil society, and international organizations.

Conclusion

Through these comprehensive strategies, NAP-AMR 2.0 aims to significantly improve India's healthcare response to antimicrobial resistance, ensuring better health outcomes for the population.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the main goal of NAP-AMR 2.0?
Answer: The primary goal of NAP-AMR 2.0 is to combat antimicrobial resistance in India by implementing targeted strategies across various sectors, improving health outcomes and safety.

Q2. How does AMR affect public health?
Answer: AMR leads to ineffective treatments, prolonged illnesses, increased mortality rates, and higher healthcare costs, posing a significant threat to global health security.

Q3. What are the causes of antimicrobial resistance?
Answer: Key causes of AMR include the overuse of antibiotics, misuse in agriculture, poor infection control, inadequate sanitation, and incomplete medication courses.

Q4. How does NAP-AMR 2.0 improve infection control?
Answer: NAP-AMR 2.0 emphasizes stronger infection control in healthcare facilities, enhanced sanitation practices, and better waste management protocols.

Q5. What sectors are involved in NAP-AMR 2.0?
Answer: The plan involves multiple sectors including human health, animal health, environmental sectors, food, and industry, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackle AMR.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What does AMR stand for?
A) Antimicrobial Resistance
B) Antibiotic Misuse Risk
C) Antiviral Management Response
D) Acute Medical Response
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: When was the first National Action Plan on AMR launched in India?
A) 2015
B) 2017
C) 2019
D) 2021
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: Which sector is NOT directly addressed in NAP-AMR 2.0?
A) Animal health
B) Environmental health
C) Industrial safety
D) Educational institutions
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: What is a major impact of AMR?
A) Increased treatment effectiveness
B) Reduced healthcare costs
C) Prolonged illnesses
D) Enhanced public health security
Correct Answer: C