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Raj Kumari Thapa



GANGTOK, SEPT 30: Pharmacists have a critical role to play in promoting the responsible use of medicines and strengthening the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), speakers said at a programme organised to mark World Pharmacists Day and National Pharmacy Week 2026 in Gangtok.

Addressing the programme, Raj Kumari Thapa highlighted the growing challenge of inappropriate and indiscriminate use of antibiotics. She said misuse and overuse—including unnecessary prescriptions, self-medication, incorrect dosage and failure to complete treatment—can allow resistant bacteria to develop and spread.

Thapa emphasised that pharmacists are not merely medicine dispensers but an important source of information for patients and the wider community. She said pharmacists can explain the correct dosage, duration and manner of using medicines and help consumers understand the dangers of using antibiotics without proper medical advice.

She also highlighted the role of pharmacy students as information bearers and future healthcare professionals, calling upon them to actively engage with the public and help awaken people about the responsible use of medicines. By taking correct information on antibiotics, self-medication and AMR from classrooms and healthcare institutions to communities, pharmacy students can contribute to building greater public awareness and responsible medicine-use practices, she said.

Thapa further stressed that AMR is not restricted to individual patients or healthcare facilities. Resistant microorganisms can spread between people, healthcare institutions, animals and the environment, making infections increasingly difficult and costly to treat.

“Pharmacists, nurses and doctors have to work jointly to avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics and combat antimicrobial resistance. Pharmacy professionals have an important responsibility to guide patients and create awareness among consumers about the correct use of medicines,” said Bikash Basnett, Political Secretary to the Chief Minister, while addressing the gathering.

He said the observance of World Pharmacists Day and National Pharmacy Week provides an opportunity to recognise the expanding contribution of pharmacy professionals to public healthcare.

“The role of a pharmacist goes beyond dispensing medicines. They are an important link between healthcare professionals and patients, and their guidance can help prevent misuse of medicines and promote healthier communities,” Basnett said.

The programme also sought to underline the importance of strengthening collaboration among pharmacists, doctors, nurses, students and the public in addressing emerging healthcare challenges, particularly AMR.

Gangtok MLA Delay Namgyal Barfungpa, Pressident of Sikkim Pharmacy Council Dr. Pema Seden,who is also Principal Director of Health Department, Ramesh Periwal President Chemists Association of Sikkim were also present at the programme, along with other dignitaries and pharmacy students.

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