Antimicrobial Resistance: National Action Plan for NAP 2.0

October 8, 2023

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Last Updated on October 14, 2023 by The Health Master

Antimicrobial Resistance

In response to the escalating challenge posed by antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the Union health ministry is poised to introduce the second edition of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance, known as NAP 2.0.

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This initiative aims to combat the increasing instances of disease-causing microbes developing resistance to medicines, marking a crucial step forward in public health.

Antimicrobial resistance occurs when microbes, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, evolve over time, rendering them unresponsive to antimicrobial treatments.

This resistance not only complicates the treatment of infections but also heightens the risks of disease transmission, severe illness, and mortality.

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The G20 Summit’s Stand on AMR

During the G20 Summit held under India’s presidency last month, member nations recognized the urgency of addressing antimicrobial resistance through the One Health approach.

This approach emphasizes research and development, infection prevention and control, and the responsible use of antimicrobials.

These efforts are being integrated into national action plans through AMR and antimicrobial consumption surveillance.

Kamini Walia, a senior scientist and programme officer at the Indian Council of Medical Research, underscored the importance of acknowledging AMR as a genuine threat to global economic development.

She emphasized the need for translating commitment into action through the implementation of National Action Plans, which could ultimately translate into saved lives.

Moreover, Walia highlighted the significance of providing equitable access to vital medical resources, especially in low- and middle-income countries, least developed countries, and small island developing states, as a critical measure to contain AMR.

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Global Impact and Economic Consequences

According to the World Health Organization, AMR led to nearly 5 million deaths worldwide in 2019. Without intervention, AMR could potentially cost the global economy a staggering $100 trillion by 2050, warns the UN body.

These alarming statistics underscore the pressing need for coordinated and comprehensive action on a global scale.

Inter-Sectoral Coordination and Unified Efforts

In June, then health secretary Rajesh Bhushan chaired a crucial inter-sectoral coordination committee meeting on antimicrobial resistance.

Bhushan emphasized that tackling AMR requires a multi-agency, unified mission mode approach, given its multifaceted nature across both governmental and non-governmental sectors.

Partner ministries and departments must collaborate cohesively, pooling their expertise and domain knowledge to formulate a robust action plan complete with key performance indicators for regular monitoring.

Strategic Objectives of NAP 2.0

The proposed NAP 2.0 outlines strategic objectives aimed at curbing AMR:

1. Enhanced Awareness and Understanding:

Through effective communication strategies, the plan seeks to improve public awareness and comprehension of AMR.

2. Surveillance and Data Collection:

It advocates for enhanced surveillance networks, both at the national and state levels, encompassing human, animal, and environmental sectors.

3. Infection Prevention and Control (IPC):

This initiative involves establishing an Infection Prevention and Control unit at the National Centre for Disease Control. It aims to draft a comprehensive National IPC programme and establish links with IPC programs under other health verticals.

4. Antimicrobial Stewardship:

This component will focus on the responsible use of antimicrobial drugs to prevent further resistance.

5. Research and Development:

The plan aims to promote innovative research and development in new medicines and technologies to counteract emerging drug-resistant strains.

6. International Collaborations:

Encouraging collaborations at national, sub-national, and international levels is crucial to developing effective solutions.

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