Thu Jul 03 17:26:20 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article:

**Summary:**

A workshop on Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) was held by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru, India. Government officials and experts highlighted the dangers of over-the-counter antibiotic sales and the need for innovative solutions. A key focus was placed on diagnostic tools for quicker and cheaper detection of antibiotic resistance. The event also launched the “One Health AMR Challenge 2025” offering significant funding to support breakthrough technologies combating AMR across various sectors. Emphasis was placed on the importance of collective effort from government, industry, and academia.

**News Article:**

**India Grapples with Antibiotic Resistance: Experts Call for Stricter Enforcement, Innovative Solutions**

**Bengaluru, July 3, 2025** – A high-level workshop on Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR), hosted by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru, shone a spotlight on India’s ongoing battle against antibiotic overuse and resistance. Government officials and leading scientists stressed the urgent need for stricter enforcement of existing guidelines and the development of innovative diagnostic and treatment solutions.

Ajay Sood, Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, identified over-the-counter antibiotic sales, unqualified medical practitioners, and prophylactic antibiotic use in animals as major contributors to the problem. “We need stronger deterrent measures from the government,” he stated, emphasizing that pharmacists cannot replace doctors in prescribing medication.

The workshop also highlighted the role of technology in combating AMR. Sood predicted quantum computing will revolutionize drug discovery, while Taslimarif Saiyed, Director-CEO of C-CAMP, emphasized the necessity of affordable and rapid diagnostic tools. “Currently, diagnostic costs are higher than antibiotic costs, and results take too long. Quicker, cheaper detection will encourage scientific diagnosis over self-medication,” Saiyed explained.

In a significant move to foster innovation, C-CAMP launched the “One Health AMR Challenge 2025” in partnership with the International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions (ICARS). This initiative will provide financial support, ranging from ₹40 lakhs to ₹2 crores, to promising technologies addressing AMR across human, animal, and environmental health. The selected innovations will also receive comprehensive technical assistance in areas such as regulatory compliance, intellectual property, manufacturing, and market readiness.

Ekroop Caur, Secretary of the Department of Electronics, Information Technology, Biotechnology, and Science & Technology, Government of Karnataka, underscored the state’s commitment to tackling AMR. “Our recently unveiled Biotech Policy identifies AMR as a key focus area. We need a collective, coordinated effort,” she said, praising the India AMR Innovation Hub for bringing together diverse stakeholders to collaborate on this critical issue.

The workshop, attended by over 50 representatives from academia, industry, government, and the public health sector, showcased cutting-edge innovations including pocket PCR devices, air sterilization systems, and paper-based lateral flow tests, demonstrating the growing momentum in India’s fight against AMR.

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