The Kerala Drug Control Department launched tests in the first week of January 2024 called Operation Amrith (AMRITH - Antimicrobial Resistance Intervention For Total Health) to prevent the overuse of antibiotics in the state. Pharmacies must keep accurate records of antibiotic sales as per this initiative.

• Additionally, a poster mentioning ‘antibiotics not sold without doctor’s prescription’ should be displayed in the establishment.
• If not complied, strict action would be taken against pharmacies and medical stores that supply antibiotics without doctor’s prescription.
• The public can also participate in this initiative by reporting any pharmacies selling antibiotics without a prescription to the Drug Control Department.
• Operation Amrith is aimed at conducting surprise raids in retail medical shops for detecting OTC sale of antibiotics and also a Toll Free Number is provided (Toll Free No 18004253182) for lodging complaints against medical shops, according to the department.
• Once a complaint is received, it will be transferred to the corresponding zonal office for verification and immediate departmental actions will be taken, if violation is detected.