NEW DELHI, March 7: On the occasion of Jan Aushadhi Diwas, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing high-quality and affordable medicines to all citizens, with the goal of building a healthier and fitter India.
In a post on X, PM Modi expressed his vision for the initiative, stating, “#JanAushadhiDiwas reflects our commitment to provide top-quality and affordable medicines to people, ensuring a healthy and fit India.”
Union Health Minister JP Nadda echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiment, emphasizing that over 15,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country are currently serving more than 10 lakh people, resulting in savings of Rs 30,000 crore. He highlighted that the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has revolutionized India’s healthcare system, emphasizing its mantra of “Achi Bhi, Sasti Bhi,” which guarantees the availability of both high-quality and affordable medicines.
Nadda pointed out the extensive portfolio of the PMBJP, which includes 2,047 medicines and 300 surgical items, catering to diverse therapeutic needs. Unlike free medicine schemes, the PMBJP maintains sustainability through stringent quality checks, competitive procurement, and a robust supply chain managed by the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI). Special incentives are also provided to encourage entrepreneurship and inclusivity, particularly for SC/ST communities, women, and businesses located in remote areas.
Looking to the future, Nadda announced the government’s plan to expand the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to 25,000 by 2027, with 5,000 new centres expected to open this year. He also highlighted the international reach of the program, noting the launch of the first overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Mauritius.
“Expanding beyond India, the first overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra was launched in Mauritius. Under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi, we have set a goal of opening 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by 2027… This year also, we will be opening 5,000 new Jan Aushadhi Kendras… I urge everyone to visit Jan Aushadhi Kendras. If you are already benefitting from Jan Aushadhi medicines, share your experience with others,” Nadda urged.
March 7 is celebrated annually as Jan Aushadhi Diwas to raise awareness about the PMBJP scheme and promote the use of generic medicines. A week-long series of events, from March 1 to 7, is organized across the nation in support of this initiative.
Launched in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, the PMBJP aims to provide quality medicines at affordable prices through dedicated outlets called Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).
