The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has proclaimed a prohibition on the manufacturing, distribution, and sale of the antibiotic Colistin to food-industry animals. This decision comes as an implementation of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Certain actions have been initiated against the irresponsible use of this antibiotic in the poultry industry and efforts to educate farmers about the potential dangers of misuse have started already. Interestingly, about 95% of Colistin is imported from China, where it has been declared unfit for use in meat- or fish-producing animals.
The Ban on Colistin
Under the guidance of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued an order that prevents the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of Colistin and its different formulations. The directive covers food-producing animals, the poultry industry, aqua farming, and animal feed supplements.
Recommendations have come from the Drug Technical Advisory Board (DTAB), the government’s top advisory body responsible for technical matters related to drugs. They suggested the necessity of a ban due to the potential risks associated with the antibiotic.
Risks Associated With Colistin
Colistin was primarily used for therapeutic purposes in veterinary medicine. However, it has become alarmingly common for its misuse in the poultry industry, where it serves as a growth promoter for prophylactic purposes.
In addition, Colistin is one of the last-resort antibiotics available to critical care units, offering assistance when all other treatments fail. However, an increase in patients showing drug resistance is a recent concern. Measures are now in place to reduce this antimicrobial resistance within the country.
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Colistin | An antibiotic used for veterinary therapeutic purposes |
| Misuse in Poultry Industry | Commonly used as a growth promoter for prophylactic purpose |
| Drug Resistance | Increasing instances of patients showing resistance to Colistin |
| Importation from China | Almost 95% of Colistin used in India is imported from China |
The Educational Drive for Farmers
There is a clear need for an educational drive dedicated to farmers. They should be informed about the potential dangers of using Colistin irresponsibly in animal feed. Not only will this lead to healthier farm practices, but it will also contribute to reducing overall antimicrobial resistance.
The Stance of China on Colistin
Interestingly, China, one of the major manufacturers of Colistin, has already proclaimed a ban on its use in any food-producing animals or fish reared for consumption. As 95% of Colistin in India is imported from China, this move simplifies the process of halting importation within a short span.
