ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci & Tech)

Context: The Union health ministry is preparing to introduce the second iteration of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, referred to as NAP 2.0. 

• This initiative aims to tackle the growing problem of disease-causing microorganisms becoming resistant to medications.

Antimicrobial Resistance

• About: It refers to the acquired resistance of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites etc, to the effectiveness of antimicrobial drugs utilized for infection treatment.
• In this, microorganisms evolve over time, rendering them unresponsive to medications. This, in turn, complicates the treatment of infections, elevates the likelihood of disease transmission, and raises the potential for severe illness and mortality.
• Causes: Injudicious use of antibiotics, self-medication, industry pollution, untreated disposal of sewage water bodies, etc.

India’s Efforts Against AMR

• The National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (2017-21) highlighted the government's success in promoting hand hygiene and sanitation through initiatives like Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Kayakalp, and Swachh Swasth Sarvatra.
• The 2017 National Health Policy provided clear directives on antibiotic usage, restricting over-the-counter access and curbing antibiotic use for livestock growth promotion.
• Red Line awareness campaign: Urging people not to use medicines marked with a red vertical line, including antibiotics, without a doctor’s prescription.