Sri Vijaya Puram, Nov. 24: ‘World Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week-2025’ was celebrated at ICAR-Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijaya Puram from 18th to 24th November, 2025. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has identified AMR as one of the top global health threats of the 21st century.
Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial agents. As a result of drug resistance, antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents become ineffective and infections become difficult or impossible to treat, increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness and death.
The ‘World AMR Awareness Week’ is a global campaign to raise awareness and increase understanding of AMR and to promote global action to tackle the emergence and spread of drug-resistant pathogens. The theme for this year’s campaign is “Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.” Throughout the week, a vibrant array of programs and activities brought the campaign to life.
The initiative kicked off on 18th November with eye-catching posters displayed at veterinary dispensaries across eight locations in South Andaman and Car Nicobar, all bearing the message ‘Go Blue for AMR’ to shine a spotlight on the silent pandemic and demonstrate collective resolve against drug-resistant infections. On 19th November, hands-on training on “Antibiotic sensitivity testing” was given to paravet staff of the Directorate of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services, Andaman and Nicobar Administration.
The momentum continued on 20th November with an essay and drawing competition on AMR awareness, engaging 135 students from eight schools. College students and project staff also showcased their creativity by submitting 11 e-posters. On 21st November, 42 farmers from across South Andaman gathered for an awareness programme. The week culminated on 24th November with a workshop where Dr Jai Sunder, Director of ICAR-CIARI, shared insights on the status of AMR in the A&N Islands.
The valedictory programme unfolded on 24th November, graced by Dr K.A. Naveen, Director of Directorate of Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, A&N Administration, as Chief Guest, and Dr Kalyan P. Kadbhane, Deputy Director (Ayush), Directorate of Health Services, A&N Administration, as Guest of Honour. Dr. T. Sujatha, Organizing Secretary, briefed about the activities during the awareness programme. Dr Kadbhane passionately highlighted the vital role of alternative medicine, especially herbal remedies, in the fight against AMR. Dr Naveen called for a united, holistic effort spanning human and animal health care, agriculture, and beyond to tackle AMR. The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude expressed by Dr Arun Kumar De.