New Delhi, Feb 28: Sales from Jan Aushadhi Kendras are poised to exceed ₹2,000 crore in the financial year 2024-25, with an extensive network of 15,000 operational outlets across India, according to Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau (PMBI) CEO Ravi Dadhich.
PMBI, functioning under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, oversees the implementation of Jan Aushadhi Kendras under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). Speaking at the commencement of the week-long events leading up to Jan Aushadhi Diwas on March 7, Dadhich highlighted that sales have already surpassed ₹1,750 crore in the current fiscal year.
Expanding Reach and Cost Savings
Dadhich emphasized the significant expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras over the past decade. From a modest count of 80 outlets in 2014, the network has surged to 15,000 outlets nationwide. The initiative has resulted in an estimated savings of ₹30,000 crore for the public by offering affordable medicines."Our goal is to reach 25,000 Jan Aushadhi outlets by March 31, 2027, but we anticipate achieving this target before the end of 2026," he stated.
Affordable Medicines and Hygiene Products
Currently, around 2,300 medicines and surgical items are available under the PMBJP scheme, with prices nearly 50-80% lower than their branded counterparts. Additionally, since August 27, 2019, Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been selling sanitary pads at just ₹1 each, with over 72 crore Janaushadhi Suvidha sanitary pads sold to date.Jan Aushadhi Diwas Celebrations
To mark Jan Aushadhi Diwas and enhance awareness about the initiative, the government is organizing a series of nationwide events, including seminars, health camps, and health walks. These activities will continue until March 7.The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana has played a pivotal role in enhancing access to affordable healthcare solutions, significantly benefitting economically weaker sections of society. With its rapid expansion, the initiative aims to further strengthen India's public healthcare infrastructure.
