Sunderbani, Oct 25: The Pharmacy Council of India (PCI), New Delhi, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Pharmacy Colleges Association, organised a programme to mark World Pharmacists Day and National Pharmacy Week 2026 at SVNS Educational Charitable Trust, Sunderbani, Rajouri, on Sunday.

Held under the theme “Swasth Bharat: Combating Antimicrobial Resistance,” the programme highlighted the importance of responsible antibiotic use, public awareness and the role of pharmacists in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
An awareness rally was organised from Sunderbani Chowk to SVNS Charitable Trust to educate people about the risks of antibiotic misuse and overuse.
Dr Montu Kumar M. Patel, President of PCI, stressed the need to promote the rational use of medicines and educate communities against taking antibiotics without appropriate medical advice. Discussions also explored the introduction of additional pharmacy courses in Jammu and Kashmir to expand educational opportunities.
Sushil Sudan, Central Council Member (Jammu and Kashmir), PCI, emphasised reforms in pharmacy colleges across the Union Territory, focusing on improving educational standards, addressing institutional challenges and strengthening the academic framework. The need to clarify matters related to the examining authority for pharmacy institutions in J&K was also discussed.
The programme featured an inaugural session, panel discussion, expert talks, student presentations, a poster presentation and a pharmacy quiz competition, providing opportunities for academic exchange and student participation.
The initiative reaffirmed PCI’s focus on quality pharmacy education, responsible medicine use and stronger public awareness to combat antimicrobial resistance and promote public health.