Antimicrobial Resistance is ranked in top 10 challenges world is facing and in Pakistan it’s one of the big issue due to uncontrolled use of antibiotics and biocides in human health, agriculture, aquaculture, and livestock sectors. In this regard, PCRWR is actively contributing in collaboration with Ministry of Health such as development of AMR Surveillance Strategy; development of National Action Plan 2.0; and AMR Stewardship in Pakistan.

Microbiology Laboratory of NWQL PCRWR Islamabad is selected for implementation of Fleming’s Funds Phase II for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) surveillance in Environment. In this phase, Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Strategy will be developed for Pakistan. In this regard, a meeting of major Stakeholders was organized at PCRWR Headquarter, Islamabad on April 30, 2024. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Hifza Rasheed, Director General (WQ) and was participated by Dr. Abdul Rehman Coordinator/ Advisor Animal Health, Fleming Fund Country Grant, DAI Pakistan, Dr. M. Abu Bakar, Senior Scientific Officer, NVL, Islamabad, Dr. Usman Talib, Consultant, FFCGP, Pakistan, Dr. Saima Shafique, Director (WASH unit), M/O CC&EC, Islamabad and other representatives from relevant departments. The purpose of the meeting was to develop a comprehensive and effective AMR Surveillance Strategy for the environmental conditions of Pakistan. TORs of proposed Technical Working Group was discussed in detail. The participants also visited the Microbiology Laboratory of NWQL. Dr. Abdul Rehman, Coordinator/Advisor Animal Health, Fleming’s Fund Country Grant, Pakistan and other visitors showed interest for future collaborations.