As part of the World Pharmacist Day & National Pharmacy Week–2026 celebrations, a Panel Discussion on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) was organized to create awareness about the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance and to highlight the importance of the responsible and rational use of antibiotics.
The panel discussion was held in the gracious presence of the Chief Guest, Dr. Pawan Sharma, BMO, Jawalamukhi, and featured an eminent panel comprising Dr. K. K. Rattan, Dr. C. P. S. Verma, Mr. Arun, Mr. Ankaj Koundal, Mr. Sukhdev Sharma, and Mr. Manish. The session was moderated by Dr. Mayank, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacy Practice.
The discussion commenced with a brief introduction to AMR, its causes, consequences, and its increasing impact on public health. As moderator, the session was structured around key issues including irrational use of antibiotics, antibiotic misuse and overuse, self-medication, antimicrobial stewardship, patient counselling, infection prevention, and the role of healthcare professionals in controlling the spread of resistant microorganisms.
The distinguished panelists shared their valuable insights and professional experiences, emphasizing that antibiotics should be used only when clinically indicated and in accordance with appropriate medical guidance. The discussion also highlighted the importance of completing prescribed courses, avoiding unnecessary antibiotic use, and discouraging self-medication.
Particular emphasis was placed on the role of pharmacists and other healthcare professionals in promoting rational medicine use. The panel acknowledged that pharmacists are uniquely positioned to educate patients, encourage adherence to prescriptions, identify inappropriate antibiotic use, and contribute to antimicrobial stewardship initiatives.
The interactive nature of the session encouraged meaningful exchange of ideas among the panelists, faculty members, and students. Questions and observations from the participants further enriched the discussion and helped connect the concept of AMR with practical challenges encountered in the community and healthcare settings.
The session concluded with a collective call for greater awareness, responsible antibiotic practices, effective patient education, and coordinated action among healthcare professionals and the community. The discussion reaffirmed that combating AMR requires a multidisciplinary and sustained approach, with every healthcare professional having an important role to play.
The programme commenced with the Welcome Address by Dr. M. S. Ashawat, Director-cum-Principal, while the Vote of Thanks was delivered by Dr. C. P. S. Verma, Dean, Student Welfare, LIPh. The overall programme was efficiently coordinated by Dr. Shiv Kumar Kushawaha, Professor & Head, Department of Pharmacology and Nodal Officer of the event.
The Panel Discussion proved to be an informative and enriching academic initiative, fostering awareness among students and participants about one of the most significant public-health challenges of our time. It successfully reinforced the message that responsible antibiotic use today is essential for protecting the effectiveness of these life-saving medicines for future generations.