Revolution in Antimicrobial Resistance: Bengaluru's Bold AMR Challenge

C-CAMP and ICARS Join Forces

In a striking initiative to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR), Bengaluru’s Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) has partnered with the International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions (ICARS) to launch the One Health AMR Challenge 2025. This ambitious program spearheads a global push toward innovative solutions in AMR, uniting sectors of human, animal, and environmental health under one umbrella.

Aiming for Technological Excellence

Targeting the brightest innovations, the challenge will select up to 12 promising technologies at Technology Readiness Levels 6–9. With substantial financial backing ranging from Rs 40 lakh to Rs 2 crore, chosen projects will also receive crucial assistance in regulatory navigation, intellectual property rights, and market readiness. This comprehensive support positions innovators to rapidly scale their solutions.

Key Focus Areas

The initiative zeroes in on several critical areas: the detection of respiratory infections, zoonotic diagnostics, minimizing antibiotic use in livestock farming, addressing pharmaceutical residue in effluents, and the rapid detection of bovine mastitis. These focus areas illuminate the multifaceted nature of antimicrobial resistance challenges and the multidisciplinary approach required to overcome them.

Aligning with National and Global Goals

C-CAMP CEO Dr. Taslimarif Saiyed expressed that the AMR Challenge is not just a local endeavor. It is in alignment with the forthcoming National Action Plan 2.0 for India and emphasizes scaling near-market solutions efficiently. The collaboration seeks to galvanize additional funds, amplifying its impact and extending its reach globally.

Joining the AMR Fight

Applications for this groundbreaking challenge opened on July 3 and will close on August 3. Innovators and researchers in the AMR space are encouraged to seize this opportunity, which according to Times of India, provides a significant platform for groundbreaking innovation to fortify the fight against AMR.

With these strategic and forward-thinking measures, Bengaluru stands at the forefront, challenging scientists and innovators to revolutionize the global AMR landscape.