Experts discuss responsible medicine use, pharmacy regulation and the role of pharmacists in patient care
Solan, September 25
Shoolini University marked World Pharmacists Day with discussions on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and the responsible use of medicines. The programme examined pharmacists’ responsibilities in dispensing medicines, preventing infections and ensuring patient safety.
The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences organised the programme in collaboration with the E-YUVA Centre and iHUB Shoolini. It was held under the theme ‘Empowering Pharmacists for Healthier Futures’, with the overarching mission ‘Swastha Bharat: Combating Antimicrobial Resistance’.
Students, faculty members, researchers, healthcare professionals, regulatory officials and academicians attended the event. Discussions covered pharmaceutical education, healthcare delivery, innovation and emerging career opportunities in pharmacy.
Dr Deepak Kumar, Professor and Dean, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chief Coordinator, E-YUVA Centre, and Coordinator, iHUB Shoolini, delivered the welcome address. He spoke about the significance of World Pharmacists Day and pharmacists’ growing responsibilities in ensuring the safe and effective use of medicines and responding to emerging healthcare challenges.
Dr Kumar also outlined the activities and progress of iHUB Shoolini, supported by iHUB DivyaSampark, TIH, DST, Government of India, and IIT Roorkee. He discussed the centre’s work in Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), the Internet of Things (IoT) and other emerging technologies.
He provided an overview of the E-YUVA Centre at Shoolini University, supported by BIRAC, DBT, Government of India. His address covered fellowships and research grants under the E-YUVA Scheme, along with support for developing research ideas into products, start-ups and entrepreneurial ventures.
Prof Ashoo Khosla, Chief Learning Officer, Shoolini University, spoke about pharmacists’ role in infection prevention and combating antimicrobial resistance. She called for their active involvement in promoting responsible medicine use and improving public awareness of healthcare.
Gopal Krishan Sharma, President, H.P. State Pharmacy Council, outlined the roles and activities of the Pharmacy Council of India and the State Pharmacy Council. He discussed professional standards, effective regulation and the responsibilities of registered pharmacists.
Lalit Kumar, Drug Inspector, Baddi, Himachal Pradesh, addressed the regulatory aspects of antimicrobial resistance, responsible medicine use and self-medication. His session covered Schedule H medicines, pharmaceutical marketing, the implementation of drug regulations and the appropriate handling of psychotropic medicines, with a focus on regulatory compliance and patient safety.
Virender Sood, District President, Chemists & Druggists Alliance, Solan, discussed the need for training within the pharmaceutical trade. He spoke about the role of pharmacists and chemists in responsible dispensing and appropriate medicine use.
Ashok Sharma, Chief Pharmacist, Regional Hospital, Solan, explained the practical responsibilities of hospital pharmacists. His session covered safe medication practices, prescription handling, medicine procurement, including online procurement, quality and quantity control, and stock management.
Dr Hemraj S. Nandanwar, Scientist G, CSIR-IMTECH, Chandigarh, delivered the keynote address on strategies for managing antimicrobial resistance. He discussed the roles of regulators and pharmaceutical production systems, pharmacists’ contribution to healthcare and the need to maintain quality in pharmacy education. He called for coordinated action by scientists, healthcare professionals, regulators and pharmacists to address AMR.
The programme included a certificate distribution ceremony to recognise student achievements and participation. Certificates were presented to the top 10 B Pharm and M Pharm students for their academic performance and contribution to pharmaceutical sciences.
