Jyot se Jyot Conference Kicks Off Partnership for AMR Awareness and Action

The collaboration signifies a shared commitment to addressing AMR through innovative solutions, capacity-building initiatives, and the promotion of responsible antibiotic use across India. With a focus on strengthening hospital systems, particularly in tier 2 and tier 3 cities, CAHO and Orchid Pharma aim to bridge gaps in antimicrobial stewardship and equip healthcare professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to curb irrational antibiotic usage.

A highlight of the initiative is the launch of India’s first-ever nationwide Prescription Audit, which will analyze deviations in prescription practices and their underlying causes. In addition, the partnership is set to enhance AMS (Antimicrobial Stewardship) programs through bedside digital support for clinicians, education for patients and their families, and the sharing of best practices with hospitals in smaller cities.

Orchid Pharma has further underscored its commitment by dedicating 1% of sales from its patented molecule, ORBLICEF™ (Cefepime-Enmetazobactam), towards AMR-related efforts. This funding will support awareness campaigns, research, and the development of advanced diagnostic tools to address AMR challenges. Among these initiatives is the creation of a Point-of-Care (POC) diagnostic tool for outpatient clinics, designed to provide a rapid “Yes/No” indication of bacterial infections. Additionally, Orchid Pharma is investing in the development of rapid culture and sensitivity testing solutions that can reduce diagnostic turnaround times to less than 12 hours, enabling timely and precise treatment decisions.

Speaking at the conference, Rajnish Rohatgi, CEO of Orchid AMS, emphasized the importance of this partnership in combating AMR:

"Our collaboration with CAHO is a testament to our resolve to reduce irrational antibiotic use and strengthen healthcare systems. By equipping hospitals and clinicians with actionable insights, we are taking firm steps to address the AMR crisis and promote more informed prescribing practices."

Dr. Vijay Agarwal, President of CAHO, echoed these sentiments, stating:

"Through this partnership, we aim to empower healthcare professionals across the country, from metropolitan centers to rural areas, with the knowledge and tools needed to uphold high standards of care. Together, we are paving the way for responsible antibiotic use and ensuring that advanced healthcare technologies are accessible to all."

The conference brought together leading voices in healthcare, including Dr. Devi Prasad Shetty, Chairman of Narayana Health, and Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi, CEO of Fortis Healthcare. Representatives from the Ministry of Health, ICMR, CDSCO, WHO, and top hospitals also participated, highlighting the collective effort required to combat AMR.

Dr. V.K. Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog, underscored the urgency of addressing AMR, noting its significant toll on public health, with nearly 2.9 lakh lives lost annually in India. He commended the CAHO-Orchid collaboration for aligning with the goals of the National Action Plan 2.0, which seeks to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use in humans by 20% by 2030.

Orchid Pharma’s collaboration with CAHO is yet another milestone in its long-standing commitment to innovation and global health. As the only Indian pharmaceutical company to invent and license a New Chemical Entity (NCE) with approvals from both the US FDA and EMA, Orchid continues to lead the charge in addressing critical healthcare challenges.

This partnership marks a new era in India’s fight against AMR, promising sustainable solutions, better awareness, and a stronger, more resilient healthcare ecosystem.