New Delhi [India], March 7: As India marks ‘Jan Aushadhi Diwas’ on Friday, Union Health Minister JP Nadda shared remarkable achievements of the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), revealing that over 15,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras are now operating across the country, providing affordable medicines to more than 10 lakh people every day and saving Rs 30,000 crores.
Speaking on the occasion, Nadda emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the initiative has revolutionized the country’s healthcare system with its ‘Achi Bhi, Sasti Bhi’ (Good and Affordable) mantra. “The Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana has transformed healthcare by ensuring high-quality, affordable medicines for all,” he said. “These centres sell medicines that are 50-90% cheaper, benefiting millions.”
The initiative offers a wide range of medications, including 2,047 medicines and 300 surgical items that address a variety of therapeutic needs. Unlike free medicine schemes, PMBJP ensures sustainability through rigorous quality checks, competitive procurement, and a robust supply chain managed by the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI).
In his address, Nadda also highlighted the inclusivity aspect of the scheme, mentioning special incentives for SC/ST communities, women, and businesses in remote areas to foster entrepreneurship. “This is a model that supports both health and economic growth,” he added.
Looking to the future, Nadda announced plans for further expansion, stating that the government aims to open 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by 2027, with 5,000 new centres planned for this year. He also revealed that the first overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra had been launched in Mauritius, signaling the initiative’s growing global footprint.
“We are determined to expand further, with a goal of 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by 2027,” Nadda said. “This year, we will be opening 5,000 more centres. I encourage everyone to visit Jan Aushadhi Kendras and share their experiences with others.”
Every year, March 7 is celebrated as ‘Jan Aushadhi Diwas’ to raise awareness about the initiative and promote the use of generic medicines. This year, the celebrations were kicked off on March 1, with a week-long series of events in the National Capital Region (NCR) to promote the initiative.
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana was launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, in collaboration with Central Pharma Public Sector Undertakings. The program is dedicated to providing quality medicines at affordable prices to the public through Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK).