Rajouri, Oct 25 (JKNS): The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), New Delhi, in association with the Jammu and Kashmir Pharmacy Colleges Association, organised a programme to mark World Pharmacists Day and National Pharmacy Week 2026 on 25 October at SVNS Educational Charitable Trust, Sunderbani, District Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir.
The programme was conducted under the theme “Swasth Bharat: Combating Antimicrobial Resistance”, highlighting the importance of responsible antibiotic use and the role of pharmacists in strengthening public health.
The programme brought together pharmacy educators, students, institutional representatives and members of the pharmacy fraternity to discuss the development of pharmacy education and the need to strengthen awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). An AMR awareness rally was organised from Sunderbani Chowk to SVNS Charitable Trust to encourage responsible medicine use and educate the public about the risks associated with the misuse and overuse of antibiotics.
Dr. Montu Kumar M. Patel, President of the Pharmacy Council of India, emphasised the importance of spreading awareness about antibiotics and antimicrobial resistance. He highlighted the need to promote the rational use of medicines and strengthen the role of pharmacists in educating communities about the dangers of taking antibiotics without appropriate medical advice. Discussions also focused on exploring opportunities for introducing additional pharmacy courses in Jammu and Kashmir to expand educational opportunities and support the professional development of students.
Mr. Sushil Sudan, Central Council Member (Jammu and Kashmir), PCI, highlighted the need for reforms in pharmacy colleges across the Union Territory. Discussions centred on improving pharmacy education, addressing institutional challenges and strengthening the academic framework to support quality education and professional standards. The need to discuss and clarify matters concerning the examining authority for pharmacy institutions in Jammu and Kashmir was also highlighted as an important aspect of strengthening the education system.
The programme featured an inaugural function, panel discussion, expert talks, student presentations, a poster presentation and a pharmacy quiz competition, providing a platform for knowledge-sharing and student engagement.
Through this initiative, the Pharmacy Council of India reaffirmed the importance of quality pharmacy education, responsible antibiotic use and public awareness in building a healthier India. The programme aimed to encourage collaboration among pharmacy institutions and stakeholders to strengthen pharmacy education and promote the responsible use of medicines across Jammu and Kashmir. (JKNS)
