In a significant stride towards tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has been instrumental in establishing the India Network for Fisheries and Animal Antimicrobial Resistance (INFAAR). This initiative marks a pioneering effort to create a structured surveillance network aimed at addressing AMR in the country's fisheries and livestock sectors.

The journey of INFAAR began in 2016 with the conceptualization and planning phases, leading to the establishment of a robust framework for AMR surveillance. By December 2017, animal AMR surveillance was articulated in the National Action Plan, setting the stage for the operationalization of INFAAR. The initial setup included formulating an operational plan, setting up an advisory board, and conducting targeted training for fisheries and livestock sectors.

The network's structure and functions were finalized in early 2017, with significant training and refinement phases following. By August 2018, standard operating procedures and sample sizes were finalized, and coordinators were designated. This was followed by continuous troubleshooting and data refinement processes to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the collected data.

A hallmark of INFAAR is its standardized approach to data collection and analysis. All network members are trained on a quality system and follow the same validated protocols for laboratory testing and sampling. This uniformity ensures the generation of high-quality, nationally representative data on AMR. The data is managed using WHONET, a specialized tool for AMR data management, and all members participate in proficiency testing or external quality assessment schemes.

One of the key milestones in INFAAR's journey was the celebration of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW) in November 2020.  Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, INFAAR members continued to gather and analyze AMR surveillance data, highlighting the commitment of the network to its mission.

Recognizing the importance of INFAAR, the Government of India has allocated dedicated funds for the next five years, ensuring the sustainability and expansion of the network. Additionally, FAO will continue to provide technical assistance, focusing on expanding INFAAR, commencing genotypic surveillance, and enhancing documentation and data management practices.

The establishment of INFAAR has yielded several collateral benefits, including improved awareness of AMR, greater collaboration between human and animal health sectors, and enhanced capacity in laboratory and data management. These efforts have led to the generation of quality, nationally representative AMR data and have fostered research centers to understand the human-animal interface dynamics for AMR.

As the network evolves, the continued partnership and engagement of both public and private sectors will be essential. This collaborative approach not only strengthens the ability to address emerging challenges but also fosters a robust framework for long-term food security and safety. The collaborative efforts from INFAAR's sessions have set the stage for ongoing partnerships and continuous stakeholder engagement, enhancing the ability to effectively combat AMR and ensure a resilient food system.

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INFAAR launch event, Credits: FAO/Rajesh Dubey

Journey of INFAAR