With an objective of making quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India in November, 2008.
As on January 31, 2023, the number of stores has increased to 9082. Under the PMBJP, 743 districts out of 764 districts of the nation have been covered.
This scheme ensures easy reach of affordable medicine to the people in every nook and corner of the country. The Government has set a target to increase the number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) to 10000 by the end of December 2023. Product basket of PMBJP comprises 1759 drugs and 280 surgical instruments. Further, new medicines and nutraceuticals products like protein powder, malt-based food supplements, protein bar, immunity bar, sanitizer, masks, glucometer, oximeter, etc. have been also launched.
In last 8 years, PMBJP has achieved a tremendous growth and unbeatable success due to quality medicines being available at cheaper cost to the people of the nation. It has drastically cut down the out of the pocket expenditure of the lower- and middle-class people of India.
This has saved more than Rs 20000 crores of citizens on cost of medicines.
This wider acceptance of people has given PMBJP further impetus to enhance its outreach in every corner of the country.
As we are aware that March 07 is celebrated as the Jan Aushadhi Diwas every year. This year we are celebrating Jan 05 Aushadhi Diwas. Likewise, events have been planned in different cities starting from March 01 to March 07, 2023. In the same connection, on March 03, 2023 celebrated as “Janaushadhi- Ek Kadam Matri Shakti Ki Ore” for awareness about Women Health & Hygiene under the guidance of Pro (Dr.) Ajai Singh, Director AIIMS Bhopal.