Can India break its habit of self-medication?

India grapples with widespread self-medication, a habit deeply ingrained in its healthcare culture. While responsible self-care for minor ailments is encouraged, the unsupervised use of prescription drugs, especially antibiotics, fuels antimicrobial resistance. Recent government regulations on cough syrups signal a push for safer medicine use, but experts emphasize the need for improved healthcare access and public awareness to break this dangerous dependency.

By YASHASVI VASISTHA