Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana: Since its introduction in 2008, the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has heralded a new era in India’s healthcare landscape. Administered by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, this initiative is designed to make affordable, quality generic medicines available to all through a network of dedicated outlets, known as Janaushadhi Kendras. With a wide-ranging catalogue of 1759 drugs and 280 surgical items, the initiative boasts 8819 operational Kendras nationwide as of October 2022.
The Scheme’s Multifaceted Objectives
The PMBJP is driven by three primary objectives: to ensure access to quality medicines for everyone, particularly the underprivileged, to dispel the misconception that high prices equate to quality, and to generate employment opportunities through the establishment of new PMBJP Kendras.
Tangible Benefits to Stakeholders
Government agencies and private entrepreneurs alike operate the scheme, offering benefits to all involved. Kendra owners enjoy an increased incentive up to ₹ 5,00,000, and special incentives are provided for Kendras opened in less developed regions or by women, differently-abled individuals, and SCs & STs. With Jan Aushadhi medicines costing 50%-90% less than their branded counterparts, the scheme has saved Indian citizens approximately Rs. 4,000 crores in the fiscal year 2020-21 alone.
Innovative Steps for Better Health Access
The PMBJP also focuses on women’s health security, with Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkins made available for just Rs.1 per pad at more than 8800 PMBJP Kendras. Additionally, the Jan Aushadhi Sugam mobile app was launched in August 2019, further simplifying access to affordable medicines by helping locate nearby Kendras and compare prices of generic and branded medicines.
Eligibility and Application Process
Entities ranging from NGOs, Charitable Institutions, and Private Hospitals to Self Help Groups and individuals with D. Pharma/B. Pharma degrees are eligible to open new Jan Aushadhi Stores. The application process involves submitting the prescribed form along with necessary documents to the Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Undertakings of India (BPPI) office in New Delhi.
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana continues to play a pivotal role in transforming India’s healthcare sector, providing affordable, quality medication for all, and generating employment opportunities across the country. It truly stands as a testament to the transformative power of proactive public healthcare policy.
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