Gandhinagar recently hosted a state-level workshop on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), organised by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Animal Husbandry Department of the Gujarat government. This workshop focused on controlling AMR in animal health. Sandeep Kumar, the Secretary of the Animal Husbandry Department, highlighted the importance of monitoring antibiotic use in animals. Various studies and research projects are being implemented to manage AMR in Gujarat. These efforts are crucial as excessive use of antibiotics in animals can lead to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Gujarat is a leading milk-producing state in India, contributing 7.65% of the country’s total milk production. In 2024, the state produced 18.31 million metric tonnes of milk. This achievement is due to the hard work of over 3.6 million dairy farmers. The per capita availability of milk has significantly increased, rising from 291 grams per day in 2000-01 to 700 grams per day today. This improvement reflects enhanced food security and nutritional availability for the population.
The state has created an action plan to control AMR. Secretary Kumar explained that this plan includes a laboratory network and field reporting systems to monitor AMR and antibiotic use in animals. It also aims to regulate the use of antimicrobials in veterinary medicine and improve prescribing practices. Veterinarians and dairy farmers are being educated about antimicrobial usage. Farmers are also being made aware of enhanced biosecurity measures and disease prevention strategies to reduce the burden of diseases and reliance on antimicrobials in farms.
During the workshop, Dr. Phalguni Thakore, Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, addressed the attendees, emphasising that AMR poses a significant global health challenge. He urged everyone to work together to overcome this issue. The workshop is part of the EU Tripartite AMR project, titled ‘Working Together to Fight Antimicrobial Resistance’.
India’s National Action Plan on AMR was initiated in 2017, focusing on a One Health approach, which has proven to be vital. Gujarat is one of the few Indian states that has developed a state action plan alongside the national action plan. This workshop is expected to play a crucial role in the effective implementation of AMR strategies in the state.
Present at the workshop were regional coordinators for AMR and One Health missions, including David Sutherland and Dr. A.M. Kadri, State Programme Officer for AMR (SAPCAR-G), along with officials from the Animal Health Department and representatives from the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB).
The dairy industry in Gujarat is a cooperative venture, with Amul Dairy being one of the most renowned. The state has numerous cooperatives operating in various regions. These cooperatives manage the collection of milk, ensure its quality, and oversee its packaging and sale. Additionally, they provide veterinary care and nutritional support for dairy animals.
The advancements in Gujarat’s dairy sector showcase the hard work of farmers and the commitment of the government to improve animal health and food safety. As the state continues to address AMR challenges, it aims to maintain its position as a leading milk producer in India while ensuring the health of both animals and humans. This workshop marks a significant step towards achieving those goals and ensuring a sustainable future for the dairy sector in Gujarat.
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