The Question: In a report, CDDEP researchers map and identify the gaps in current antimicrobial resistance (AMR) research in India. The study was commissioned by the Department for Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, in partnership with Research Councils United Kingdom (RCUK).

What We Found: The research highlights high levels of antimicrobial resistance including to broad-spectrum antibiotics fluoroquinolones and third-generation cephalosporins. For humans, third generation antibiotics are widely available, however, narrow-spectrum agents such as penicillins are not widely available. Bacteria resistant to broad spectrum (third generation) antibiotics have been found in poultry, cattle, pigs, and fish.

There are no standards set for antibiotic residues in pharmaceutical industrial pollution and thus are not monitored in their effluents. Last-resort antibiotic resistance genes (NDM-1) have been identified in several major rivers in India.

Why It Matters: Studies published in India on antimicrobial resistance are limited in scope in all areas including humans, animals, and the environment. The study highlights the need for investments in interdisciplinary studies to support policies to contain AMR.