Munish Sood
Mandi
In a major academic initiative aimed at addressing the escalating global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Abhilashi University, Mandi, will organise a week-long national workshop from April 3 to 9, 2026, under the sponsorship of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi.
Sharing detailed information about the programme, Dean Academic Affairs, Dr. S.K. Shukla said the workshop, themed “Medicinal Plants as Novel Antimicrobial Agents: A Strategy to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)”, is designed to explore sustainable and scientifically validated alternatives to conventional antibiotics. “With the growing resistance to antimicrobial drugs worldwide, it has become imperative to identify innovative solutions. Medicinal plants, with their rich bioactive compounds, offer immense potential in this direction,” he stated.
Dr. Shukla informed that the workshop will provide participants with hands-on exposure to advanced laboratory techniques, including phytochemical extraction, compound isolation, antimicrobial assays, High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), and UV-Visible spectroscopy. Eminent scientists and subject experts from premier institutions such as ICMR, CSIR, AYUSH, and other leading research organisations will be part of the programme, delivering expert lectures and guiding practical sessions.
He further stated that the workshop has been structured to ensure a comprehensive learning experience through laboratory visits, group discussions, daily assessments, and final evaluations. “The programme is particularly beneficial for postgraduate students, research scholars, faculty members, and early-career researchers in fields like Ayurveda, microbiology, pharmacy, and biotechnology,” he added.
According to Dr. Shukla, a total of 40 participants from across the country—including scientists, medical professionals, academicians, and researchers—have been selected for the workshop. Their diverse expertise is expected to enrich deliberations and contribute meaningfully to research advancements in medicinal plant-based antimicrobial solutions.
Highlighting the institutional support, he said that selected participants will be provided free accommodation and meals, along with certificates upon successful completion of the workshop. “Importantly, there is no registration fee, reflecting the university’s commitment to promoting accessible and high-quality research training,” he noted.
University Chancellor Dr. R. K. Abhilashi has described antimicrobial resistance as a serious emerging global health challenge, stressing the need for safe and effective alternatives. Vice-Chancellor Prof. H. K. Chaudhary also emphasised the importance of integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific research to tackle AMR effectively.
Dr. Shukla asserted that such initiatives will not only accelerate research on medicinal plants but also strengthen scientific approaches in combating antimicrobial resistance. “This workshop is a step towards fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and capacity-building among young researchers and academicians,” he said.
