Gujarat charts AMR strategy amid soaring milk production

In response to the increasing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in the livestock sector, a state-level workshop was held in Gandhinagar. This event, organized by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and the Animal Husbandry Department, aimed to tackle AMR issues as part of the EU Tripartite AMR Project "Working Together to Fight Antimicrobial Resistance." Key stakeholders, including state officials and representatives from the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), gathered to discuss AMR strategies.

Sandeep Kumar, Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department, highlighted initiatives tracking antibiotic usage in livestock and emphasized Gujarat's successful efforts in the dairy sector. In 2024, Gujarat produced 18.31 million metric tonnes of milk, a significant contribution to India's total milk output. The state has developed a comprehensive State Action Plan on AMR to align with the National Action Plan launched in 2017. This plan includes monitoring of antimicrobial use, regulation of veterinary prescriptions, and awareness campaigns for veterinarians and dairy farmers.

Farmers are trained in biosecurity to reduce antibiotic reliance and disease. Dr. Falguni Thakkar called AMR a "major global health challenge" and advocated for collaborative action under the ‘One Health’ framework. The workshop is set as a model for other states in implementing AMR strategies effectively.