Jan Aushadhi Kendras

Why in news

The Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), implementing agency of the PMBJP scheme, continuously evaluates Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) based on their sales performance. The scheme has improved access to affordable generic medicines, with estimated citizen savings of ₹45,000 crore in the last 12 years.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS3 · Governance, Economy, Society · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) are evaluated based on sales performance by PMBI.
2. The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) scheme has improved access to affordable generic medicines.
3. Estimated savings of ₹45,000 crore have accrued to citizens in the last 12 years compared to branded medicines.
4. The scheme has reduced out-of-pocket expenditure for households.
5. As of June 30, 2026, 20,149 Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been opened.
6. The product basket includes 2,110 medicines and 315 surgicals, medical consumables, and devices.
7. The product basket covers major therapeutic groups and almost all generic medicines from the National List of Essential Medicines (except lab reagents and vaccines).

Prelims pointers

• Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) operate under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) scheme.
• PMBI is the implementing agency for the PMBJP scheme.
• The scheme aims to provide affordable generic medicines.
• Estimated citizen savings due to the scheme are ₹45,000 crore over 12 years.
• As of June 30, 2026, there were 20,149 JAKs nationwide.
• The product basket includes 2,110 medicines and 315 surgicals/devices.
• The scheme covers essential medicines listed in the National List of Essential Medicines.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana in improving healthcare accessibility and affordability in India. What are the key achievements and challenges associated with the Jan Aushadhi Kendras?

Static linkage

The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a scheme launched by the Government of India to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices. It aims to reduce healthcare costs for citizens and ensure availability of essential medicines. The Jan Aushadhi Kendras are retail outlets established under this scheme.

Significance

The Jan Aushadhi Kendras play a crucial role in making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the common populace. By providing generic alternatives at significantly lower prices than branded medicines, the scheme directly addresses the issue of high out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure, particularly impacting lower and middle-income groups. The expanding network of these kendras, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, ensures equitable access to essential medicines, thereby contributing to improved public health outcomes and reducing the financial burden on households. The wide range of medicines and consumables available further enhances its utility.