Jan Aushadhi Diwas: Promoting Affordable Medicines
March 7th marks the annual celebration of ‘Jan Aushadhi Diwas,’ a day dedicated to raising awareness about the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) and promoting the use of generic medicines. This year, the festivities kicked off on March 1st, with a series of events held across the country to highlight the importance of affordable healthcare. Launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, the PMBJP aims to provide quality medicines at lower prices through dedicated outlets known as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK).
Key Activities Under PMBJP
The PMBJP is designed to ensure that quality generic medicines are accessible to all citizens at affordable prices. The initiative encompasses several key activities:
- Raising Awareness: A primary goal is to educate the public about the benefits of generic medicines, emphasizing that lower prices do not equate to lower quality. The initiative seeks to dispel the myth that higher prices guarantee better therapeutic value.
- Encouraging Prescriptions of Generic Drugs: The program encourages healthcare professionals, especially in government hospitals, to prescribe generic alternatives. This effort aims to promote cost-effective treatment options for patients.
- Enhancing Accessibility: PMBJP strives to provide a wide range of commonly used generic medicines across various therapeutic categories. This ensures that essential healthcare products are available to everyone, particularly marginalized communities.Despite India being a leading exporter of generic medicines globally, many citizens still struggle to access affordable healthcare. Branded medicines often come with a hefty price tag, making it difficult for the average person to afford necessary treatments.
Major Initiatives Under PMBJP
Among the significant initiatives under PMBJP is the introduction of Suvidha Sanitary Napkins, launched on August 27, 2019. Priced at just ₹1 per pad, these eco-friendly sanitary napkins are available at over 15,000 PMBJKs nationwide. As of January 31, 2025, cumulative sales have reached an impressive 72 crore units.
Additionally, the Jan Aushadhi SUGAM mobile application was launched in August 2019. This user-friendly app allows users to locate nearby Jan Aushadhi Kendras, search for generic medicines, and compare prices between generic and branded options, highlighting potential savings.
Transforming Healthcare Accessibility
A unique aspect of the PMBJP is its operation by both government agencies and private entrepreneurs. The program offers significant financial incentives to encourage participation:
- Price Advantage: Jan Aushadhi medicines are priced 50%-80% lower than branded counterparts available in the market.
- Quality Assurance: Medicines are sourced exclusively from World Health Organization (WHO) certified manufacturers, ensuring high-quality products. Each batch undergoes testing at laboratories accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL).
- Incentives for Entrepreneurs: PMBJP offers a monthly incentive of up to ₹20,000 based on purchases, along with a one-time incentive of ₹2 lakh for Kendras opened in underserved regions or by specific groups, including women entrepreneurs and ex-servicemen.
A Week of Celebrating Affordable Medicines
The week-long celebration of Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2025 commenced with Union Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda flagging off a promotional vehicle. Each day of the week featured various activities, including health camps, awareness seminars, and distribution of sanitary products, culminating in a grand celebration on the final day.
The PMBJP has made significant strides in improving access to quality medicines at affordable prices, ensuring that healthcare reaches every corner of India. With over 15,000 Janaushadhi Kendras operational, the initiative not only enhances healthcare affordability but also fosters self-employment opportunities, paving the way for a healthier future for all citizens.
Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.