The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Yojana (PMBJP) is one of the most important healthcare initiatives launched by the Government of India to make quality medicines available to everyone at affordable prices. This scheme ensures that people, especially from low and middle-income groups, can access essential medicines without financial burden.
1. Introduction of the Scheme
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Yojana (PMBJP) was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India. It was first started in 2008 under the name “Jan Aushadhi Scheme”, and later, in 2015, it was re-launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with an expanded vision and improved implementation.
The main aim is to provide generic medicines at lower prices compared to branded medicines, ensuring better health access for all citizens.
2. Objectives of PMBJP
The key objectives of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Yojana are:
- To make quality medicines available at affordable prices to all sections of society.
- To reduce healthcare expenses for poor and middle-class families.
- To promote the use of generic medicines and remove the misconception that cheaper medicines are less effective.
- To encourage self-employment by opening Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country.
3. What Are Generic Medicines?
Generic medicines are chemically identical to branded medicines. They have the same composition, dosage, and effect but are sold at a much lower price because they are not marketed under expensive brand names.
These medicines are approved by regulatory authorities and meet the same quality standards as branded ones.
4. Key Features of PMBJP
- Affordable Medicines:
Generic medicines sold under PMBJP are 50% to 90% cheaper than branded medicines. - Wide Network:
The scheme operates through Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) — special medical stores opened across India to sell generic medicines. - Quality Assurance:
All medicines supplied under this scheme are tested in NABL-accredited laboratories to ensure high quality and safety. - Availability of Surgical and Medical Devices:
Along with medicines, several surgical items and medical devices like masks, gloves, and stents are available at lower prices. - Digital Support:
The government has introduced the Janaushadhi Sugam Mobile App, which helps citizens find nearby Janaushadhi Kendras, check medicine availability, and compare prices.
5. Benefits of PMBJP
- For Patients:
Access to affordable, quality medicines and medical devices. - For Entrepreneurs:
Opportunity to open a Janaushadhi Kendra with government support. - For the Nation:
Reduces dependency on costly branded medicines and promotes self-reliance in healthcare.
6. How to Open a Janaushadhi Kendra
Anyone can open a Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra, such as:
- Individual entrepreneurs
- Doctors or pharmacists
- NGOs and charitable institutions
- Hospitals or private clinics
Eligibility and Support:
- The applicant must have a D.Pharm or B.Pharm qualification (or hire a qualified pharmacist).
- The government provides a financial assistance of up to ₹2.5 lakh to support new kendras.
- Medicines are supplied by Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI), now known as Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI).
7. Role of PMBI (Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India)
The PMBI is the central agency responsible for implementing the scheme. Its roles include:
- Procuring generic medicines from reputed manufacturers.
- Ensuring timely supply to all kendras.
- Maintaining quality control through testing.
- Expanding the network of kendras across the country.
8. Achievements of PMBJP
Since its re-launch, the PMBJP has achieved significant milestones:
- More than 10,000 Janaushadhi Kendras have been opened across India (as of 2025).
- Over 1,800 medicines and 280 surgical items are available at these stores.
- Millions of patients have benefited from affordable healthcare.
- The scheme has saved people an estimated ₹20,000 crore in medicine costs.
- Special focus has been given to remote and rural areas, ensuring last-mile healthcare access.
9. Importance During COVID-19
During the COVID-19 pandemic, PMBJP played a vital role by:
- Supplying essential medicines and equipment like masks, sanitizers, and gloves.
- Keeping prices stable when other outlets increased rates.
- Ensuring availability of medicines even during lockdown periods.
10. Challenges Faced
Despite its success, PMBJP faces a few challenges:
- Limited public awareness about generic medicines.
- Uneven distribution of kendras in rural and remote regions.
- Occasional supply delays due to high demand.
The government continues to work on expanding infrastructure and awareness campaigns to address these issues.
11. Future Plans and Vision
The Government of India plans to further strengthen the PMBJP by:
- Expanding the network to every district and block in India.
- Increasing the number of available medicines and surgical items.
- Introducing more digital tools for online medicine ordering.
- Encouraging more entrepreneurs and youth to open kendras.
By 2030, the goal is to make healthcare affordable, accessible, and inclusive for all Indians.
12. Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Yojana is a transformative healthcare initiative that has made quality medicines affordable and accessible to millions of Indians. It has not only reduced medical expenses for families but also created employment opportunities and promoted the use of “Made in India” generic medicines.
With continuous government efforts and growing awareness, PMBJP stands as a strong pillar of “Affordable Healthcare for All”, fulfilling the vision of Ayushman Bharat and making India a healthier nation.
