The Goa government has launched Project Parivartan, a four-year initiative aimed at reducing hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and curbing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) across all 41 public health facilities in the state. Health Minister Vishwajit Rane confirmed the initiative during a detailed review meeting held on Wednesday.
Collaborative Effort for Safer Healthcare
The project is being implemented jointly by Goa Medical College (GMC) and the Directorate of Health Services (DHS), in collaboration with Americares India Foundation, and is supported by Pfizer India through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme. Rane held discussions with representatives from Pfizer, Americares, GMC, DHS, and other senior officials to assess the project’s current progress.
Strategic Roll-Out and Ethical Clearances
Launched on November 27, 2024, Project Parivartan began with the training of a 19-member professional team. Key stakeholders, including officials from GMC, DHS, and the Hospital Infection Prevention and Control Committee, participated in engagement meetings to align the project with institutional goals.
As reported by TOI, the State Ethical Committee and the Institutional Ethical Committee of GMC granted the necessary approvals, allowing for baseline assessments to begin in DHS-managed facilities. GMC will commence similar assessments shortly.
Building a Robust Statewide Framework
Project Parivartan is focused on establishing a comprehensive framework for antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and infection prevention and control (IPC). Its primary objective is to reduce HAIs and promote the rational use of antibiotics across Goa’s public healthcare system. By conducting baseline assessments and developing AMR surveillance tools, the project aims to monitor trends in resistance and guide evidence-based interventions.
Training and Capacity Building
To strengthen healthcare delivery, the project includes specialised training programmes for medical professionals on AMS and IPC. These efforts aim to enhance the capacity of clinical teams and promote responsible antibiotic prescribing. They also focus on ensuring safer patient care environments throughout the state.
Alignment with National and Global AMR Strategies
Minister Rane emphasized that Project Parivartan aligns with both India’s National Action Plan on AMR (2017–2021) and the WHO’s global AMR containment strategy. India’s central government has long recognised the threat of AMR. It launched a national task force in 2010, followed by a national AMR policy in 2011. Project Parivartan continues this momentum at the state level. It reinforces Goa’s commitment to public health safety and sustainable antibiotic use.
Driving Change for Healthier Futures
“Project Parivartan will help drive safer healthcare practices, improving patient outcomes and public health,” Rane stated. Goa is taking decisive steps to protect its population from the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance. This includes strategic partnerships, evidence-based training, and system-wide surveillance.