In this blog post we are going to discuss about The Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) Scheme,  Kendra, Features and Benefits. The Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Scheme, launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India in November 2008, aims to make quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all sections of society. The scheme was formulated and approved in the Standing Finance Committee Meeting of 01/02/2010 in consultation with the Planning Commission.

Background of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP)

India has witnessed significant growth in the pharmaceutical industry over the years. However, despite the reasonable prices of medicines compared to other countries, a large segment of the population, especially the economically disadvantaged, still find it challenging to afford essential medications. Branded drugs, sold at disproportionately high prices, dominate the market, leaving many people unable to access necessary healthcare. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 65% of India’s population lacks access to modern healthcare. Additionally, up to 79% of healthcare expenses in rural areas are attributed to the cost of medicines.

Objective of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP)

The key objective of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) is to ensure the availability of quality generic medicines at affordable prices for all individuals, particularly the poor and disadvantaged. The scheme aims to achieve the following goals:

1. Make quality the hallmark of medicines by ensuring supplies from Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) compliant manufacturers.
2. Extend the coverage of quality generic medicines to reduce the overall cost of treatment per person.
3. Provide access to generic equivalents of prescription and over-the-counter drugs across all therapeutic categories, benefiting not only the beneficiaries of the Public Health System but also the general public.
4. Create awareness that quality does not always equate to high prices.
5. Generate demand for generic medicines by improving access to affordable healthcare.
6. Foster collaboration among various stakeholders, including state and central governments, public and private sector enterprises, NGOs, and cooperative bodies, to ensure the success of the program.
7. Develop a replicable model that can be implemented in other countries to achieve affordable quality healthcare.

Features of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP)

The Jan Aushadhi Scheme encompasses the following salient features:

1. Establishing specialized outlets called Jan Aushadhi Stores (JAS) to make quality medicines available at affordable prices, with a particular focus on the poor and disadvantaged.
2. Provision of built-up space for JAS in district hospitals by state governments.
3. Operation of JAS by state government-nominated Operating Agencies, such as NGOs, Charitable Organizations, and public societies like the Red Cross Society and Rogi Kalyan Samitis.
4. Meeting the operational expenditure from the trade margins admissible for the medicines.
5. Initially, supplying generic medicines through Central Pharma PSUs to ensure both quality and timely availability. However, medicines can also be sourced from quality small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) units.
6. Encouraging government doctors, with support from the state governments, to prescribe generic medicines.

Government Action and Achievement of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) Scheme

The Jan Aushadhi Scheme has made significant progress in improving access to affordable medicines across the country. As of April 30, 2017, a total of 1253 Jan Aushadhi Stores/Kendras have been opened, covering 29 states/union territories and 419 districts. To further promote the scheme, it was renamed “Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana” (PMBJP) in November 2016.

Financial assistance

is provided to open PMBJP Kendras in government hospitals/medical college premises, including reimbursement of furniture and fixtures, free medicines in the beginning, and support for computer equipment. The procurement of medicines follows stringent quality assurance measures, with drugs being procured from WHO GMP-compliant manufacturers and tested at NABL-accredited laboratories to ensure safety, efficacy, and compliance with required standards.

The Jan Aushadhi Scheme has emerged as a self-sustaining business model that aims to provide affordable healthcare without relying on government subsidies. By making quality generic medicines available at significantly lower prices than branded alternatives, the scheme promotes cost-effective treatments and substantial savings for patients, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. With over 2000 PMBJP Kendras operational across the country, the scheme continues to expand its reach and make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape in India.
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FAQ

1. What is the Jan Aushadhi Scheme?
The Jan Aushadhi Scheme is an initiative by the Government of India to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices to all segments of society.

2. How does the Jan Aushadhi Scheme benefit the public?
The scheme ensures that people have access to quality medicines at significantly lower prices, making healthcare more affordable for everyone, especially the economically disadvantaged.

3. Who operates the Jan Aushadhi Stores?
Jan Aushadhi Stores are operated by state government-nominated Operating Agencies, including NGOs, Charitable Organizations, and public societies.

4. How are the medicines procured and tested under the Jan Aushadhi Scheme?
Medicines are procured from WHO GMP-compliant manufacturers and tested at NABL-accredited laboratories to ensure their quality, safety, and efficacy.

5. How many Jan Aushadhi Stores are currently operational?
As of the latest update, there are over 2000 PMBJP Kendras operational across the country, covering various states and union territories.