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PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat Sparks Urgent Call to Fight Antimicrobial Resistance

Dr. Sanjeev Singh of Amrita Institute praised Prime Minister Modi for highlighting antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as a critical public health threat in his Mann Ki Baat address. He emphasized that irresponsible use of antibiotics, like self-medication and not completing courses, is a major driver of this "silent pandemic." The Prime Minister cited an ICMR report showing antibiotics are failing against common infections, urging people to use them only under medical guidance. Both leaders called for collective public action, including pledging to never use antibiotics without a prescription, to combat this growing crisis.

Key Points: AMR Crisis: PM Modi & Doctors Urge End to Antibiotic Misuse

  • PM Modi highlights AMR as silent pandemic
  • Irresponsible antibiotic use drives crisis
  • Never take antibiotics without prescription
  • Always complete the full prescribed course
3 min read

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the greatest threats: Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences Director

Medical experts welcome PM Modi's Mann Ki Baat warning on antimicrobial resistance, urging citizens to stop self-medication and complete antibiotic courses.

"Small, responsible action by each citizen will protect the health of the entire nation. - Dr. Sanjeev Singh"

Faridabad, December 29

Dr. Sanjeev Singh, Medical Director of Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, has welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent address on antimicrobial resistance in his Mann Ki Baat program. Dr. Singh emphasised the critical need for collective action to combat this growing health threat.

In a self-recorded video message released after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent Mann Ki Baat address on Sunday, Dr Singh, stated the Prime Minister had highlighted one of the most serious public health challenges facing the country and the world.

"We were very fortunate that PM Modi covered a very critical subject called antimicrobial resistance. In his Mann ki Baat today, PM Modi once again reminded the nation of the silent pandemic, which is antimicrobial resistance, and it is one of the greatest threats to the future of our generation. Antimicrobial resistance is a threat because of irresponsible, unwarranted use of antibiotics. The Prime Minister's message was very loud and clear. Small, responsible action by each citizen will protect the health of the entire nation," he said.

He warned that irresponsible and unwarranted use of antibiotics is a major contributor to the growing crisis, saying," Inspired by the Prime Minister's message, let us all come together and take a pledge to never take antibiotics without a registered medical doctor's prescription and always complete the prescribed course."

Dr Singh urged citizens to follow medical advice strictly and avoid self-medication. Highlighting a common but dangerous practice, he stated, "As soon as we start feeling healthy or the signs and symptoms start disappearing, we immediately stop antibiotics primarily because of the cost, and that is one of the detrimental reasons for antimicrobial resistance. We should finish the course of the antibiotic. Never use or share antibiotics with family members or use leftover medicines..."

On Sunday, referring to a recent report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), PM Modi said that antibiotics are proving ineffective against many diseases, including pneumonia and urinary tract infections. This is a matter of great concern for all of us.

He said the report noted that the "major reason for this is people's indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Antibiotics are not medicines that should be taken mindlessly. They should be used only on the doctor's advice. Nowadays, people have started believing that just taking a pill would cure all their problems. This is the reason diseases and infections are proving to be too strong for these antibiotics. I urge all of you to refrain from using medicines at your own discretion. This is especially important when it comes to antibiotics. I would simply say: Medicines require guidance, and antibiotics require doctors. This practice will prove to be very helpful in improving your health."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Absolutely correct. The practice of using leftover medicines or sharing prescriptions is rampant. Pharmacies also need to be stricter about selling antibiotics without prescription. This is a collective responsibility.
A
Aman W
While the message is vital, I hope the government backs this up with concrete action. Regulating pharmacies in smaller towns and villages is a huge challenge. Awareness must reach the grassroots.
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Sarah B
As someone who has lived in India for 5 years, I've noticed this is a cultural issue. The "quick fix" mentality with medicines is dangerous. Dr. Singh's point about completing the course is so true. We stop when we feel better.
K
Karthik V
My father is a doctor and he keeps complaining about patients demanding antibiotics for viral infections. They don't work! Public education is key. Mann Ki Baat is a good platform for this. 👍
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Nisha Z
Cost is a major factor, as Dr. Singh said. Many families can't afford a full course. The government should also look at making essential antibiotics more affordable through schemes like Jan Aushadhi. It's a health security issue.

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