31-Dec-2022: Government has deepened the reach of PMBJP with more than 9000 stores covering 743 out of 766 districts across the country

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. The target of opening 3000 Kendras was achieved in December 2017. Further, a revised target of total 6000 outlets was also achieved in March, 2020. In this journey, the number of Kendras have now increased to 9000 from 8610 in the last financial year. Hence, the Government has deepened the reach of PMBJP with more than 9000 stores covering 743 out of 766 districts across the country. The Government has set a target to increase the number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) to 10,000 by March 2024. The product basket of PMBJP comprises 1759 medicines and 280 surgical devices covering all major therapeutic groups such as Cardiovascular, Anti-cancers, Anit-diabetics, Anti-infectives, Anti-allergic, Gastro-intestinal medicines, Nutraceuticals, etc.  In addition to this, various nutraceutical products like Protein Powder, Malt-based Food Supplements, etc. and some AYUSH products like Ayuraksha Kit, Balraksha Kit and Ayush-64 tablet as Immunity boosters have been added in the product basket of the Pariyojana.

Medicines available under PMBJP are priced 50%-90% less than that of branded medicines. In the financial year 2021-22, sale of Rs. 893.56 Crore has been done, which has led to savings of about Rs. 5300 Crore to the citizens as compared to the branded medicines. In the current financial year i.e. 2022-23, PMBI has made sales of Rs. 758.69 Crore till 30.11.2022 which has led to savings of approximately Rs. 4500 Cr. to the citizens. Overall sales have seen a phenomenal growth which shows wider acceptance of Jan Aushadhi.

This scheme is providing a good source of self-employment with sustainable and regular earnings. Under PMBJP, an incentive of Rs. 5.00 lakh is provided to the Janaushadhi Kendras as a financial assistance and one-time additional incentive of Rs. 2.00 lakh (as reimbursement for IT and Infra expenditure) is being provided to Janaushadhi Kendras opened in North-Eastern states, Himalayan areas, Island territories and backward areas mentioned as aspirational district by NITI Aayog or if opened by women entrepreneur, Ex-serviceman, Divyang, SC & ST.

Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Sanitary Napkins are sold at Rs. 1/- per pad through these 9000 PMBJP kendras across the country. Since inception till 30.11.2022, 31.40 crore Janaushadhi Suvidha Sanitary pads have been sold at Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras, across the country. There are four warehouses at Gurugram, Chennai, Guwahati and Surat. These are backed by SAP based inventory management system to facilitate uninterrupted supply and faster delivery to remote and rural areas.

23-Apr-2022: Online applications are invited to open Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras in 3579 Blocks of 406 districts of 26 States/UTs

Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), the implementing agency of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is inviting applications from Individuals, Unemployed Pharmacist, Government nominated agencies, NGO’s, Trust, Societies, etc.  for opening of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs). The applications have been invited through an online process. Interested applicants can apply on PMBI’s website “janaushadhi.gov.in. Eligible applicants will be given in-principal approval for taking drug license on the name of PMBJP on first come first basis.

With a vision to provide quality medicines at an affordable rate for the common man especially the poor, Govt. has set a target to increase the number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) to 10000 by March 2024. Till 31.03.2022, the number of stores has increased to 8610. Under the PMBJP, all 739 districts of the country have been covered. New applications have been invited to cover 3579 blocks of these 406 districts. Residents of small towns and block headquarters can now avail the opportunity to open Jan Aushadhi Kendras. The scheme provides for incentive/special incentives for various categories including women, SC/ST, Hill districts, Island districts and North-Eastern States. This will ensure easy reach of affordable medicine to the people in every nook and corner of the country. Detailed terms and conditions for opening of PMBJP Kendra and incentive scheme for various categories can be seen on PMBI’s website i.e. Janaushadhi.gov.in.

The product basket of PMBJP comprises 1616 medicines and 250 surgical devices which are available for sale through more than 8600 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) functional across the country. In addition to this, some AYUSH products like Ayuraksha Kit, Balraksha Kit and Ayush-64 tablet as Immunity boosters have been added in the product basket of the Pariyojana which is being made available through selected Kendras. The product basket covers all major therapeutic groups such as Cardiovascular, Anti-cancers, Anti-diabetics, Anti-infectives, Anti-allergic, Gastro-intestinal medicines, Nutraceuticals, etc. Further, PMBI is working on the launch of Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) products and food products under FSSAI and highly demanded ayurvedic products under the PMBJP for expansion of their product basket.

PMBI has strengthened the supply chain system by setting up four warehouses at Gurugram, Chennai, Guwahati and Surat. In addition, there is a strong distributor network of 39 distributors across India to ensure timely supplies in every part of India.

4-Feb-2022: Generic Medicines Outlets to provide generic medicines to common people at affordable prices

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 in the year 2008. Under the Scheme, dedicated outlets known as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) are opened to provide generic medicines at cheaper rates to the citizens. Government has set a target to open 10,500 Kendras across the country by March 2025.

As on 31.12.2021, about 8,640 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) have been opened across the country, out of which about 276 PMBJKs are functioning in the State of Bihar.

Generic drugs are also commonly used drugs. The product basket presently comprises of 1,451 medicines and 240 surgical items covering all major therapeutic groups such as Cardiovascular, Anti-cancers, Anti-diabetics, Anti-infectives, Anti-allergic, Gastro-intestinal medicines, Nutraceuticals, etc. These medicines are available through more than 8,600 PMBJKs functioning across the country.

There is no shortage of generic medicines in PMBJKs. Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), the implementing agency of PMBJP is doing proper forecasting and inventory management regularly to ensure availability of medicines and surgical items on a continuous basis at PMBJKs, including at 139 PMBJKs functioning in the State of Rajasthan as on 31.12.2021.

6-Oct-2021: Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) achieves the target of FY 2021-22 in just 6 months

Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), the implementing agency of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has completed the target of opening of 8,300 Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) for the FY 2021-22 before end of September, 2021. All the districts of the country have been covered under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). Effective IT-enabled logistics and supply-chain systems for ensuring real-time distribution of medicines at all outlets have also been introduced.

Product basket of PMBJP presently comprises 1,451 drugs and 240 surgical instruments. Further, new medicines and nutraceutical products like glucometer, protein powder, malt-based food supplements, protein bar, immunity bar, etc. have been launched.

With a vision to provide quality medicines at an affordable rate to the common man especially the poor, Government has set a target to increase the number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) to 10,000 by March 2024. As on 5th October, 2021, the number of stores has increased to 8355. These kendras will ensure easy access of affordable medicine to the people in every nook and corner of the country.

At present three warehouses of PMBJP are functional at Gurugram, Chennai & Guwahati and fourth one is under construction at Surat. Further, 37 distributors have been appointed across the country to support the supply of medicines to remote and rural areas.

“Janaushadhi Sugam” a mobile application for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) facilitates the public by providing a digital platform at the tip of their fingers.

Under the Scheme, medicines are procured from World Health Organization – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP) certified suppliers for ensuring the quality of the products. Apart from this, each batch of drug is tested at laboratories accredited by ‘National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories’ (NABL). Only after passing the quality tests, the medicines are dispatched to PMBJP Kendras. Medicines available under PMBJP are priced 50%-90% less than that of branded prices. During the financial year (2020-21), PMBJP has achieved sales of Rs. 665.83 crores (at MRP) during the last financial year. This has led to savings of approximately Rs. 4,000 crores of the common citizens of the country.

In the wake of COVID 19 crisis, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has been rendering essential services to the nation. The stores remained functional during lockdown and maintained operations as part of their commitment to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential medicines.

6-Aug-2021: 8,001 Janaushadhi Kendras opened as on 02.08.2021 covering all the districts of the country

Under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), the Government has opened 8,001 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) as on 02.08.2021 covering all the districts of the country and aim to open about 10,500 Janaushadhi Kendras by March, 2025.  The State Governments/UT Administrations have been requested from time to time to facilitate opening of Janaushadhi Kendras in the premises of Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs)/Community Health Centers (CHCs)/Hospitals, including super specialty hospitals, by providing rent-free space within their premises. As on 2.8. 2021, about 1,012 Kendras are functioning inside Government’s premises.

The scheme was evaluated through a third party before considering its continuation. The recommendations made by the agency were duly considered and changes, as appropriate, made before obtaining approval of the Standing Finance Committee (SFC) for continuation of the scheme.  Further, the performance/functioning of PMBJKs are periodically reviewed at the level of CEO of the Bureau as well as by the Executive and Governing Council of the Implementing Agency of the Scheme, viz., Pharmaceutical & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI).

Medicines for Janaushadhi Kendras are procured from domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing companies having World Health Organization – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP) certified facilities. The medicines are tested in National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) approved Laboratories. The medicines are thereafter dispatched to PMBI’s warehouses at Gurugram, Chennai and Guwahati, wherefrom these are dispatched to the vendors all over the country. A countrywide network of 37 distributors has also been established to support the logistics & distribution of medicines to the Janaushadhi Kendras.

The Government has recently enhanced the incentive granted to storeowners from existing Rs. 2.50 lakh to up to Rs. 5.00 lakh, given @ 15% of monthly purchases made, subject to a ceiling of Rs. 15,000/- per month. Further, the Government has recently approved additional one-time incentive of Rs. 2.00 Lakh for purchase of furniture and fixtures to the PMBJKs opened in aspirational districts, Himalayan, Island territories, North Eastern States and PMBJKs opened by women entrepreneurs, Divyaangs, SCs & STs.

14-May-2021: Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs), BPPI and other stakeholders join hands to make available the essential medicines and other items at affordable prices

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs), Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI), Distributors and other stakeholders have come together and are contributing in the fight against the current wave of Covid 19 pandemic.

As on 13.05.2021, 7733 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) are functional across the country in 36 State/UTs covering all districts of the country. 1449 medicines and 204 surgical & consumables are available in the basket of PMBJP for sale through these PMBJKs. Essential medicines and other items like face masks and sanitizers are easily available at PMBJKs, across the country. Under PMBJP, the best quality N-95 facemask is being made available at only Rs. 25/- per unit at all PMBJKs.

In the current financial year 2021-22 till 13.05.2021, BPPI has made sales of Rs. 80.18 Crore which led to savings of approximately Rs. 500 Cr. to the citizens.

The logistics system is being strengthened. At present three modern warehouses at Gurugram, Guwahati and Chennai for storage and distribution of drugs are functional and a fourth one is under construction at Surat. Further, 37 distributors have been appointed across the country to support the supply of medicines to remote and rural areas.

In the year 2020-21, when the COVID 19 crisis started, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) rendered essential services to the nation. The stores remained functional during lockdown and maintained operations as part of their commitment to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential medicines.

A medicine under PMBJP is priced on the principle of a maximum of 50% of the average price of top three branded medicines. Therefore, the price of Jan Aushadhi Medicines is cheaper at least by 50% and in some cases, by 80% to 90% of the market price of branded medicines.

In the financial year 2020-21, BPPI clocked appreciable sales turnover of Rs. 665.83 crore despite the lock down and testing times. This has led to savings of approximately Rs. 4000 crores of the common citizens of the country. BPPI maintained adequate stock of the medicines which were in demand, such as Face Mask, Hydroxychloroquine, Paracetamol and Azithromycin. BPPI sold about 25 lacs Face Masks, 1.25 lacs units of sanitizers, 137 lacs tablets of Hydroxychloroquine and 323 lacs Paracetamol Tablets in the financial year 2020-21 through more than 7500 Jan Aushadhi kendras functioning across the country, at affordable prices. BPPI has also supplied drugs worth Rs 30 crore to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for distribution to friendly countries. There are many medicines and OTC items, being used during the treatment of COVID 19, available in the PMBJP basket.

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana added several Nutraceutical products to help boost the immunity of all (including women and children). PMBJP prices of all these products are 50%-90% lesser than the ones offered in the market.

Last year, during the lockdown period, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) rendered their essential services by making available quality generic medicines at affordable prices to the common citizens of the country at their doorstep. Kendra pharmacists, popularly known as “Swasth Ke Sipahi” delivered the medicines to patients and elderly people at their doorstep.

7-Mar-2021: PM addresses ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’ celebrations

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressed ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’ celebrations through video conference. He dedicated to the nation the 7500th Janaushadhi Kendra at NEIGRIHMS, Shillong during the event. He interacted with beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana. Stakeholders were recognized by the Prime Minister for their excellent work. The Union Ministers Shri D. V. Sadananda Gowda, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya, Shri Anurag Thakur,  Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Deputy Chief Ministers of Meghalaya and Gujarat were present on the occasion.

The Prime Minister interacted with beneficiaries, Kendra Sanchalak, Jan Aushadhi Mitras at five locations i.e. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh;  Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh; Ahmedabad, Gujarat; Maruthi Nagar, Diu and Mangalore, Karnataka. Interacting with the beneficiaries, the Prime Minister requested them to adopt a healthy lifestyle. He told them that due to affordability, patients are taking the required medicines leading to better health outcomes. He praised the youth promoting the Janaushadhi movement and asked them to help in the ongoing vaccine drive.

The Prime Minister asked the beneficiaries to spread the word about the benefits of Janaushadhi. He said “you are my family and your ailment is ailment of my family members, that is why, I want all my countrymen to stay healthy.”

Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister noted that the Janaushadhi Yojana is becoming a big friend of poor and middle class families. It is becoming the medium of both service and employment.  Dedication of 7500th centre of Janaushadhi at Shillong is an indication of spread of Janaushadhi Centers in the Northeast. The scheme is providing affordable medicine to people in hilly areas, Northeast and tribal areas, Shri Modi noted.  He said that dedication of 7500th center is important as there were not even 100 centres in India six years ago. He asked to achieve the target of 10000 centers. Poor and middle class families are saving about Rs 3600 crore every year on expensive medicines. He said that the scheme is promoting Aatmanirbharta among women as more than 1000 centers are being run by the women.  The Prime Minister remarked that in order to promote the scheme, incentive has been enhanced from 2.5 lakh to 5 lakh with additional incentive of 2 lakh for Dalit, Aadivasi women and people of the Northeast.

The Prime Minister noted that the demand for India made medicines and surgery has increased. Production is also increasing to keep up with the increasing demand. A large number of employment opportunities are also being created. He said that now 75 AYUSH medicines are also available in Jan Aushadhi centers. Patients will benefit by getting AYUSH medicines cheaply and the field of Ayurveda and AYUSH Medicine will also be benefitted.

The Prime Minister said that for a long time, government thinking treated health only as a subject of just disease and treatment. However, the topic of health is not confined to just disease and treatment but affects the economic and social fabric of the country. He pointed out, for a holistic approach to health, the Government has worked on the causes of disease too. He cited Swachch Bharat Abhiyan, free LPG connections, Ayushman Bharat, Mission Indradhanush, Poshan Abhiyan and recognition to yoga to illustrate the holistic nature of the Government approach towards health. The Prime Minister touched upon the UN recognition of year 2023 as International Year of Millets. He stressed the need to promote coarse grain as it will not only provide nutritious food grain but will also add to the income of the farmers.

Pointing out the enormous burden of medical treatment on the poor families, the Prime Minister said that in the recent years, efforts are being made to remove all types of discrimination in the treatment and medical treatment has been made accessible to  every poor person of the country. For this, prices of essential medicines, heart stents, knee surgery related equipment have been reduced manifold, said the Prime Minister. He said Ayushman Yojana has ensured free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh, for the country's more than 50 crore poor families. So far more than 1.5 crore people have taken advantage of it and saved about Rs 30000 crore.

The Prime Minister lauded the scientist for the Made in India Corona vaccine and said, today India has vaccines not only for local use but also for helping the world. He stressed that the Government specially kept the interest of the poor and middle class in mind for vaccination. The vaccination is free in the government hospitals and private hospitals are charging just Rs 250 which is the lowest in the world.

The Prime Minister stressed on the need for having infrastructure for effective treatment and availability of quality medical staff. He said that the Government has started working on a holistic approach in extending the health infrastructure from primary hospitals in villages to tertiary hospitals and medical colleges like AIIMS.

The Prime Minister recounted the government’s efforts to improve medical setup in the last six years. He informed that in the last 6 years more than 30 thousands seats have been added to 55 thousand MBBS seats that existed in 2014. Similarly, there were 30 thousand PG seats, to which, 24 thousand new seats have been added. 180 new medical colleges have been established in the last six years. 1.5 lakh Health and Wellness centers have been established in villages, 50 thousand of which have already started functioning. These centers are treating serious ailments and making sophisticated tests available locally. Shri Modi noted the enormous increase in allocation for health in the Budget and talked about Pradhan Mantri Aatmanirbhar Swasthya Yojana for complete solution of the health problems. Every district has provided diagnostic centers and more than 600 critical care hospitals have been established. Work is on for establishing one medical center in three Lok Sabha constituencies, the Prime Minister said.

The Prime Minister said that the effort of the government today is to make the treatment cheaper, accessible for everyone. With this thinking policies and programs are being made today. He added that Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Project's network spread rapidly and reached as many people as possible.

14-Jan-2021: Jan Aushadhi Kendras record sales of Rs 484 Crore this Financial Year

In the financial year 2020-2021 (upto 12th January 2021), sales worth Rs. 484 Cr were recorded at the 7064  Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras across all districts of the country selling quality generic medicines. This figure which is 60% higher than the corresponding figures of the previous financial year,  has led to savings of approx. Rs. 3000 Cr. to the citizens of this country. This was announced by the Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilisers, Shri Sadananda Gowda in Karnataka today.

In the financial year 2019-2020, the Government of India grant for the Jan Aushadhi Kendras was Rs 35.51 Crore while savings to citizens were Rs. 2600 Crore. Thus, every one rupee spent by Government has led to savings of Rs. 74 to the citizens. It has multiplicative effect, Said Shri Gowda.

The Minister also announced that further, stepping forward towards empowering women all around the country, till date more than 10 Crore Jan Aushadhi ”Suvidha” sanitary pads have been sold at Re.1 each. Purchase order for Jan Aushadhi ”Suvidha” sanitary pads worth Rs. 3.6 Cr. has  been placed in December 2020.  Tender for 30 crore Jan Aushadhi ”Suvidha” sanitary pads has also been finalized.

Speaking specially about Karnataka, Shri Gowda said that at present, 788 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras in Karnataka are serving the citizens by providing them affordable, high-quality generic-medicines. Karnataka aims to achieve the target of opening a total of 800 PMBJK by March 2021 in the state. Making a unique breakthrough in the healthcare sector with its wide range of medicine, the PMBJP Kendras in Karnataka aim to achieve sales worth of Rs. 125 Crore by March, 2021.

3-Nov-2020: Shri Sadananda Gowda holds a review meeting of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana

Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers Shri DV Sadananda Gowda held a comprehensive review meeting of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in New Delhi today.

PMBJP has achieved sales of Rs 358 crores (as against sale of Rs 433 crore in FY 2019) worth of pharma products through 6600 Jan Aushadhi stores during first seven months of this fiscal (up to Oct 31st ), and is likely to surpass sales of Rs 600 crore for entire fiscal year.

During the meeting Shri Gowda congratulated BPPI Team for ensuring supply of medicines and other pharma products like masks to people at affordable rates during difficult times of covid-19.

Shri Gowda underlined that the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to reduce out of pocket expenditure of citizens on medicines, especially of marginalized section of the society is finally taking shape. He suggested that BPPI should take measures to consolidate these gains by strengthening supply chains by adopting innovative measures.

He said there is a need, to work on increasing awareness of people regarding efficacy and quality of Jan Aushadhi medicines, increasing coverage with focus on remote and rural areas, and for making sure availability of medicines at each Jan Aushadhi shops. He asked BPPI to prepare and submit a detailed action plan to achieve this goal.

Sri Sachin Kumar Singh, CEO, BPPI gave a brief presentation on the operations of PMBJP scheme.

The scheme of providing affordable medicines to citizens was revamped as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) scheme in 2015-16 under the guidance of Shri Narendra Modi with the aim of bringing down healthcare budget of every citizen of India by providing quality generic medicines at affordable prices. Since then, the Jan Aushadhi stores selling affordable generic medicines has grown from mere 99 stores in 2014-15 to around 6600 stores at present. Sales figure has also seen a jump from Rs 7.29 crore in 2014-15 to Rs 433 crore in 2019-20.

3-Sep-2020: Shri Sadananda Gowda launches 8 Nutraceutical-immunity boosting products under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) for sale through Janaushadhi Kendras

Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers Shri DV Sadananda Gowda launched here today 8 immunity boosting products under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) for sale through Janaushadhi Kendras across country.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Gowda informed that the launch of new nutraceuticals today  is significant in view of the Corona-19 pandemic.  These products will help in boosting immunity of the people. He also informed that products are comparable in quality and are cheaper by over 26% than the market price.  He hoped that through the massive network of  Janaushadhi Kendras, the immunity boosting- protein products will reach a large population promoting good health. Shri Gowda further said that Government is also now providing many nutraceuticals like protein supplements, malt-based nutrition drinks, immunity booster etc for improving overall health and nutritional condition of people.

The Minister also informed that around  one million patients visit our 6500 plus stores every day, to purchase quality generic & affordable medicines.  This scheme is becoming a boon for patients who are supposed to take medicines for chronic ailments like diabetes, blood pressure, psychotropic, etc.  He further, said that importance of these Janaushadhi Kendras was highlighted by the Prime Minister himself in his Independence Day speech when he  referred to Janaushadhi Kendras selling Sanitary Napkins at Rs.1 per pad under the name of Suvidha Scheme to ensure women menstrual hygiene and for safe periods.  The material which is used in the pad is having oxo-biodegradable properties, thus making it not only affordable, but also environment friendly. He added that though the scheme was launched in 2008, only 99 stores were functional till end of March 2016. The scheme was revamped, as per the vision of the Prime Minister in all aspects like procurement, logistics, IT & opening of Kendras in 2017. At present, there are 6587 Kendras. 732 districts out of 734 are covered.

On the occasion Minister of State for Chemicals & Fertilisers Shri Mansukh Mandaviya said that ratio of generic medicines has now gone up after revamped, Janaushadhi Kendras were launched as per the vision of the Prime Minister. He pointed out the new nutrient based products will help in improving immunity and are thus important during the present  time when Corona pandemic has spread in the country. Shri Mandaviya also informed that the Janaushadhi Kendras have played important role  in providing cheaper but quality generic medicines whose sale and use went up sharply after these Kendras were revamped by the present government.  Secretary Pharmaceutical Dr. P D Vaghela also addressed on the occasion.

Details of the Nutraceutical products under PMBJP

Sl. No.	Name of the Product	Pack Size	PMBJP MRP (Rs.)	Avg. MRP of top 3 branded products (Rs.)	Savings (in percentage)
1	Jan Aushadhi Poshan malt-based	1’s Screw Cap Plastic Jar 500gm	175	236	26%
2	Jan Aushadhi Poshan malt based with Cocoa	1’s Screw Cap Plastic Jar 500gm	180	243	26%
3	Protein Powder (Chocolate)	1's Tin 250 gm	200	380	47%
4	Protein Powder (Vanilla)	1's Tin 250 gm	200	380	47%
5	Protein Powder (Kesar Pista)	1's Tin 250 gm	200	380	47%
6	Jan Aushadhi Janani	1's Tin 250 gm	225	300	25%
7	Protein Bar	35 gm	40	80	50%
8	Jan Aushadhi Immunity Bar	10 gm	10	20	50%

Ministry also promoting use of generic medicines in India by various mediums like print, electronic & social media, organizing seminars involving social impact groups like doctors, pharmacists, consumers etc. spent around Rs 21 crore in last five years for this purpose. Sanctioned budget of Rs 12.90 crore this year.

For inviting more applicants & increasing viability of stores, incentives are being provided  which are almost doubled from Rs 2.50 lakh to 5.00 lakh. Government is also providing one time grant of Rs 2.00 lakh for store set-up to persons belonging to SC,ST, women & Divyaang category and to any applicant opening store in N-E States, aspirational districts & Himalayan states.

17-Jun-2020: Sanitary Napkins available for Rs. 1/- per pad at Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras

Keeping in view the present scenario as a social drive Jan Aushadhi Suvidha  Sanitary Napkin is being made available in more than 6300 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana -PMBJP Kendras across the country at a minimum price of Rs.1/-per pad. The market price of the similar Sanitary Napkins is around Rs. 3/- to Rs. 8/- per pad.  

Since inception (4 June 2018) to 10th June, 2020 over 4.61 crore sanitary Napkins was sold at Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras. After the revision in the prices on 27 August 2019, over 3.43 Crore pads have been sold till 10th June, 2020 at Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras.

It may be stated that menstruation and menstrual practices still face some social, cultural, and religious restrictions which are a big barrier in the path of menstrual hygiene management. In many parts of the country especially in rural areas girls and women do not have access to sanitary products or they do not opt for them as most of these items available in the market are bit costly.

This step ensured ‘Swachhata, Swasthya and Suvidha’ for the underprivileged Women of India. This step has been taken by the Union Department of Pharmaceuticals to ensure the achievement of  Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Affordable and Quality Healthcare for All.

Sanitary Napkins are environmental friendly, as these pads are made with Oxo-biodegradable material complying with ASTM D-6954 (biodegradability test) standards. Under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, these pads are being sold at Rs 1/- per pad .

PMBJP Kendras are functional in this challenging time of outbreak of COVID-19 and ensuring availability of medicines and essentials to anyone who needs them. Jan Aushadhi Suvidha sanitary napkins are available across all Kendra's. Under PMBJP, more than 1.42 Crore pads have been sold in the month of March, April & May, 2020, across the country. Suvidha Pads are available in sufficient quantities across all Kendra's .

On the eve of World Environment Day 4th June 2018, Government of India proudly announced the launch of “Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Oxo-Biodegradable Sanitary Napkin” for women of India.

1-Jun-2020: PMBJKs achieves impressive sales of over Rs 100 crore in first two months of 2020-21 compared to about Rs 40 crore in same period of 2019-20

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra's -PMBJKs has achieved an impressive sales of Rs 100.40 Crore in first two months of 2020-21 as compared to Rs 44.60 Crore  in same period of 2019-20.

Kendra's  have sold approx. Rs 144 Crore worth of  affordable & quality medicines  in the month of March, April & May 2020 which saved around Rs 800 Crore of citizens during the period when COVID-19 pandemic has affected the country.

"In this tough times of COVID-19 pandemic, we are committed to ensure full availability of medicines to all", said Shri DV Sadananda Gowda, Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers while expressing satisfaction over important role played by BPPI while implementing PM Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) through the network of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).

In the wake of COVID 19 crisis, employees of BPPI, Kendra owners, Distributors and other stakeholders came forward and joined hands for fight against the pandemic. BPPI is standing with its stakeholders and consumers in these challenging times as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra (PMBJK) are functional and maintaining regular operations as part of their commitment.

BPPI has stated that it is committed to ensure uninterrupted availability of essential medicines at the PMBJK. Kendra's has clocked its highest monthly sales turnover of Rs. 52 Crore despite the lock down and testing times in the month of April 2020 & Rs. 42 Crore achieved in March 2020. BPPI is maintaining adequate stock of the medicines which are currently under demand viz. Face Masks, Hand Sanitizers, Hydroxychloroquine, Paracetamol and Azithromycin. BPPI has sold about 10 lakh face masks, 50 lakh tablets of Hydroxychloroquine in the month of March & April 2020. Envisioning current market demand, BPPI has also placed purchase orders for procurement of these medicines to have enough stock for the next six months. BPPI has also supplied medicines to Ministry of External Affairs for supplying to friendly countries.

Following the lockdown measures in place, over 6300 PMBJKs are functioning across the nation, covering 726 districts of the country. Supporting the governments initiative of practicing social distancing, pharmacists of the PMBJK, now popularly known as “Swasthya Ke Sipahi” are undertaking delivery of medicines to patients and elderly people at their doorstep. Further, BPPI is creating awareness about means to fight against the pandemic vide its social media posts at various platforms. Mobile application ‘Janaushadhi Sugam’ becomes very popular and more than 4 lakh downloads took place. In these ways, BPPI is playing active role in the fight against the outbreak of COVID-19.

5-May-220: Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendras accepting orders on WhatsApp and e-mail to facilitate medicine procurement during lockdown

Amid lockdown many Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendras(PMBJK)  under the Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers are accepting the orders for medicines on WhatsApp and e-mail, where on the basis of uploaded prescriptions medicines are delivered at the doorsteps of the patients. This novel move is ensuring use of technology for facilitating easier procurement of medicines by the users.  Complementing PMBJKs for this initiative Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers Shri DV Sadananda Gowda said, " it is heartening to note that many PMBJKs are using modern communication tools including social media platforms like WhatsApp to provide better services in effecting faster delivery of essential medicines to the needy."

PMBJKs are working under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana ( PMBJP). At present there are over 6300 PMBJKs functioning in 726 districts of the country ensuring supply of quality medicines at affordable prices. These medicine are cheaper by about 50% to 90% on an average. In April 2020 around 52,crore Rupees worth of medicine have been supplied throughout the country.

In addition, supply arrangements with India Post has also been made for supply to remotely located stores.

Moreover Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India(BPPI) under Department of Pharmaceuticals, Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, has paid its vendors within due date for solving their working capital issues for raw material & logistics.

Dedicated Team has been created of BPPI Officers for every State to sort out bottlenecks in supply due to lockdown.

Jan Aushadhi warehouses are working at full capacity and inhouse residential arrangements have been made for staff.

Helpline numbers of BPPI is working to resolve any issues of consumers and store owners.

For maintaining supply of essential Medicines during lock down period, BPPI has issued purchase orders for 178 fast moving medicines in the month of April having MRP of Rs 186.52 crore.

12-Apr-2020: PM Janaushadhi Kendra people are working as Corona Warriors-Mandaviya

The Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Shri Mansukh Mandaviya has said that even in the current difficult circumstances the Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra (PMJK) people are working as Corona Warriors and serving the nation.

In a tweet Minister Said, it is being ensured that affordable medicines are available at 6300 Jan Aushadhi centers across the country.

Shri Mandaviya further said that to deal with the current situation its warehouses are working day and night on war footing.

During the lockdown due to spread of COVID-19 pandemic across the country, pharmacists of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras are delivering quality generic medicines at affordable prices to the common citizens of the country.

Presently, more than 6300 PMJAKs are functioning across the country, covering 726 districts .

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) scheme is being run by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India with an objective of providing quality and affordable healthcare to anyone in need.

To ensure the availability of affordable medicines ,one central warehouse in Gurugram, two regional warehouses at Guwahati and Chennai and around 50 distributors are working with their full capacity. In order to control the supplies of the medicines, a strong SAP based end to end point of sales software has been set up . Mobile application “Jan Aushadhi Sugam” is also available for common public to locate their nearest Janaushadhi Kendra and availability of medicines with its price. The app. can be downloaded from Google Play Store and I-phone Store.

In the lockdown period, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is also generating awareness through informational posts on their social media platforms, to help people protect themselves from Coronavirus. You can also get updates by following us @pmbjpbppi at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.

7-Apr-2020: Swasth ke Sipahi delivering essential services and medicines at doorstep of patients and elderly under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)

Pharmacists, popularly known as "Swasth ke Sipahi", of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra , are delivering essential services and medicines at doorstep of patients and elderly under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) of the Government of India. Working as part of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMJAK), they are extending essential services by making available quality generic medicines at affordable prices to the common People of the country and the elderly persons at their doorstep to fight Corona pandemic. This is supporting the government's initiative of practicing social distancing.

PMJKs are being run by Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India(BPPI) under Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India with an objective of providing quality and affordable healthcare to anyone in need. Presently, more than 6300 PMJAKs are functioning across the nation, covering 726 districts of the country.

In order to stop the spreading of Coronavirus, Government of India placed a lockdown of 21 days i.e. up to 14th April, 2020, across the country.

In such times, all PMJAKs are playing a key role in ensuring availability of essential medicines and delivering them at their doorstep. As informed by BPPI, recently, one of their “Swasth ke Sipahi” shared his experience. He told Babout an elderly woman who called him at PMBJK, Pahadiya, Varanasi asking for help. According to the Pharmacist, the elderly woman lives with her husband in Varanasi, alone and had exhausted the stock of her daily medicines. Consuming these medicines regularly is critical to maintain her bodily functions. The pharmacist could not stop himself from helping the couple. He collected the medicines, as she asked and set out to deliver the same at her house. Since then, pharmacist has been delivering medicines to the sick and elderly at their doorstep.

One central warehouse in Gurugram, two regional warehouses at Guwahati and Chennai and around 50 distributors are working towards ensuring a surplus supply of the medicines to all the Kendras, across the country. In order to control the supplies of the medicines,   set up a strong SAP based end to end point of sales software to avoid any stockout situation. mobile application “Jan Aushadhi Sugam” is also available for common public to locate their nearest Kendra and availability of medicines with its price. The app. can be downloaded from Google Play Store and I-phone Store.

In the lockdown period, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is generating awareness through informational posts on their social media platforms, to help people protect themselves from Coronavirus. You can also get updates by following us @pmbjpbppi at Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.

6-Mar-2020: Jan Aushadhi Diwas will be celebrated On 7th March

Jan Aushadhi Diwas will be celebrated on 7th march 2020. Prime minister Shri Narendra Modi will interact with owners of selected Jan Aushadhi  Kendras and beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jana Aushadhi Pariyojana-PMBJP through a video conferencing from New Delhi. In  Every Jan Aushadhi outlet the message of the prime minister will be telecasted  through DD News.

Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers D.V Sadananda Gowda will be participating  in this programme  at Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, while  MoS Chemicals & Fertilizers Mansukh  Mandaviya will be at a Jan Aushadhi Kendra of Pulwama in J&K UT. Shri Gowda has requested all Union ministers to actively participate  in this celebration to boost the confidence and trust of the people on Jan Aushadhi Medicines and create awareness about the scheme.

Various programme will be organized at all PMBJP Kendras across the country to increase the awareness about the scheme. These programme will witness participation of doctors, health experts, NGO and beneficiaries in a large number.

The Jan Aushadhi  Divas  aims to provide further impetus and create awareness  about the use of generic medicines. The day will also highlight the initiative undertaken by Government in the direction of making quality healthcare for all, like Ayushman Bharat, PMBJY, etc.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana was launched by Prime Minister with an objective of making high-quality medicines available to all at an affordable prices, especially to the poor and underprivileged, through exclusive outlets of Jan Aushadhi Medical Stores.

“Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana” is a noble initiative by Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India which is now making an impact on masses in its endeavor to provide quality medicines at an affordable price. Jan aushadhi Kendra is considered as the biggest retail pharma chain in the world with around 6200 outlets in 700 districts. Further, total sales of these stores in the financial year 2019-20 has  crossed Rs 390 crore which led to total savings of approximately Rs 2200 crore of common citizens as these medicines are cheaper by 50 to 90% of the average market price. The scheme also provides a good source of self-employment with sustainable and regular earnings.

3-Mar-2020: Celebration of Janaushadhi Week from 1st to 7th March

Janaushadhi week is being celebrated across the country from 1st March to 7th March 2020. On this occasion various activities like health checkup Camp, Jan Aushadhi Paricharcha, Jan Aushadhi ka sath are being undertaken.

During the week, blood pressure check-up, sugar level checkup, free doctor consultation and free medicine distribution are being hosted at various Jan Aushadhi Kendras. General public who visited these health camps were also informed and educated about the price benefits and quality of the medicines being sold at Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

Yesterday a small CME Programme with important doctors/IMA Chapter of the city Doctors was conducted on pan India basis where detailed discussions on Jan Aushadhi medicines were held. Jan Aushadhi doctors were requested to take lead and convince others and prescribe Jan Aushadhi medicines.

“Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana” is a noble initiative by Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India which is now making an impact on masses in its endeavor to provide quality medicines at an affordable price. The number of Kendras has grown to more than 6200 and 700 districts are covered under the scheme at present. Further, total sales in the financial year 2019-20 (up to February 2020) have crossed Rs 383 crore which led to total savings of approximately Rs 2200 crore of common citizens as these medicines are cheaper by 50 to 90% of the average market price. The scheme is also providing a good source of self-employment with sustainable and regular earnings.

23-Jul-2019: Generic Medicines Stores

Under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), a total of 5440 dedicated retail outlets selling affordable generic medicines are functional in the country as on 15.07.2019.

There is no definition of generic or branded medicines under the Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules, 1945 made thereunder. However, generic medicines are generally those which contain same amount of same active ingredient(s) in same dosage form and are intended to be administered by the same route of administration as that of branded medicine. Further, drugs manufactured in the country, irrespective of whether they are generic or branded, are required to comply with the same standards as prescribed in the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules, 1945 made thereunder for their quality. As such they are expected to have similar effects.

The price of an unbranded generic version of a medicine is generally lower than the price of a corresponding branded medicine because in case of generic version, the pharmaceutical company does not have to spend money on promotion of its brand. The sale of a generic version is incentivized by a pharmaceutical company by keeping a high trade margin for wholesalers and retailers.

Medical Council of India (MCI) has notified an amendment in Clause 1.5 of Indian Medical Council (Professional Conduct, Etiquette and Ethics) Regulations, 2002 vide notification dated 21.09.2016, which stipulates that “Every physician should prescribe drugs with generic names legibly and preferably in capital letters and he/she shall ensure that there is a rational prescription and use of drugs”. MCI has further issued a circular on 21.04.2017 vide which all the Registered Medical Practitioners under the Indian Medical Council (IMC) Act have been directed to comply with the aforesaid provisions.

16-Jun-2019: 25 batches of drugs of 18 pharma companies found substandard since Jan 2018 by BPPI

The Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI), which implements the Centre’s flagship affordable medicine scheme PMBJP, has found 25 batches of drugs of 18 different pharmaceutical companies to be of substandard quality since January 2018. While 17 out of the 18 companies are private, one is a public sector unit (PSU) - Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited (IDPL).

Both the BPPI and the IDPL work under the Department of Pharmaceuticals of the central government.

Once the affordable generic drugs are procured from pharmaceutical companies by the BPPI, they are supplied to various Janaushadhi Kendras that are managed under the Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). There are 4,677 Janaushadhi Kendras functional in the country, as on December 31, 2018.

Batches of two drugs of AMR Pharma India Private Limited – one an antidiabetic drug Voglibose and the other a hypertension drug Telmisartan – were found to be substandard by the bureau since January 2018, according to the official document.

As on February 8 this year, under the PMBJP scheme, the BPPI has entered into a contract with 146 pharmaceutical manufacturing companies for procuring generic medicines to be sold through dedicated retail outlets.

Seven companies — Overseas Health Care, Hanuchem Laboratories, Legen Healthcare, AMR Pharma India Private Limited, Jackson Laboratories, Mascot Health Series and Terrace Pharmaceuticals — have been blacklisted for a period of two years for supplying substandard drugs to the BPPI.

6-Mar-2019: 7th March 2019 to be celebrated as ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’ across India

“With the initiative of Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi in the direction of making quality healthcare affordable for all, the Government has taken important steps to make affordable and quality generic medicines popular among the people through Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)”.

For providing further impetus & creating awareness about use of generic medicines, it has been decided to celebrate 7th March 2019 as ‘Janaushadhi Diwas’ across India. Hon’ble Prime Minister will interact with owners of Janaushadhi Kendras and beneficiaries of the scheme across the country through video conference at 1:00 pm on 7th March, 2019. Talking about the future course of development, Shri Mandaviya added that with this pace of progress, all blocks in the country would have at least 1 PMBJP Kendra by 2020.

Citing Prime Minister’s vision that no poor person should die due to non-availability of good quality affordable medicines in the country, Shri Mandaviya said that with developments like more and more doctors prescribing generic medicines and opening of over 5050 Janaushadhi stores across 652 districts, awareness and availability of high quality affordable generic medicines has increased in the country. About 10-15 lakh people benefit from Janaushadhi medicines per day and the market share of generic medicines has grown over three-fold from 2% to 7%in last 3 years.

Health is one of the most important part of development and this Government has been incessantly working to ensure quality healthcare affordable for all, through schemes like Ayushman Bharat, PMBJP among others. The Janaushadhi medicines have played a big role in bringing down the out of pocket expenditure of patients suffering from life threatening diseases in India. The PMBJP scheme has led to total savings of approximately Rs.1000 crores for common citizens, as these medicines are cheaper by 50% to 90% of average market price.

As part of the celebrations of Janaushadhi Diwas tomorrow, programmes would be organized at all PMBJP Kendras to increase the awareness about the scheme. These programmes would witness participation of doctors, health experts, NGOs and beneficiaries, which would help in spreading awareness about the scheme to common masses.

PMBJP is also providing a good source of self-employment with self-sustainable and regular earnings. Average sales per store per month has grown to Rs 1.50 lakhs (including OTC & other products) as per a survey conducted by the BPPI, which implements the scheme. Four big warehouses Delhi, Guwahati, Bengaluru, Chennai have been opened so as to ensure adequate availability of Janaushadhi medicines at all PMBJP Kendras.

16-Oct-2018: Shri Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurates the Central Warehouse of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana at Bilaspur, Gurugram

Union Minister of State for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Road Transport & Highways, Shipping, Shri Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the hi-tech Central Warehouse, setup by the Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI), in Bilaspur, Gurugram. The hi-tech Central Warehouse would facilitate seamless distribution of Jan Aushadhi generic medicines to all PMBJP Kendra functional across the country.

The Minister had yesterday inaugurated the Digital Cash Management System for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), to be implemented as a partnership between BPPI and Bank of Baroda. This System will be implemented at all PMBJP Kendras for purchasing medicines and cashless payment system with BPPI. Bank of Baroda will also provide loan to all PMBJP Kendra for purchasing medicines. The cashless transactions will be done only through unique virtual accounts opened by Bank of Baroda for each and every PMBJP Kendra, across the country.

Shri Mandaviya informed that presently, there are more than 4200 PMBJP Kendra functional in 34 States/UTs, across the country and the following milestones have been achieved:-

• 700+ medicines and 154 surgical and consumables are available in the basket for sale through PMBJKs. Shortly the basket will be enhanced to 1000 medicines.
• Central Warehouse is established as per WHO guidelines for ensuring better quality storage and logistics services.
• A distribution network of One Central Warehouse, four regional warehouse and 53 distributors spread over different states is functional.
• IT enabled (SAP based) end-to-end Supply Chain Management System has been implemented.
• ‘Point of Sale’ software application at our all PMBJP Kendras has been implemented.
• 638 districts have been covered, remaining 81 are being covered on priority.
• All financial transactions are being done in digital mode upholding the concept of “Digital India”.

Shri Mandaviya also released first edition of e-magazine of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana “JAN AUSHADHI SAMVAD” (September 2018 edition). The Minister said that it is important to have open communications with all stakeholders and publication of e-magazine “Janaushadhi Samvad” is a positive step in this direction. Shri Mandaviya also inaugurated co-branding standee, which will be displayed by all the branches/ATMs of Bank of Baroda and PMBJP Kendras together.

4-Jun-2018: Government launches ‘JANAUSHADHI SUVIDHA’ – Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin – under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)

Government launched the ‘JANAUSHADHI SUVIDHA’, the Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin, under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). The affordable sanitary napkins will now become available at over 3600 Janaushadhi Kendras functional in 33 States/UTs across India.

This unique product would ensure Affordability, Hygiene as well as Ease of use and disposal for them. Jan Aushadhi Suvidha comes with a special additive, which makes it biodegradable when it comes in contact with oxygen after being discarded. This would ensure ‘Swachhta, Swasthya and Suvidha’ for the underprivileged Women of India and go a long way in the achievement of Prime Minster Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Affordable and Quality Healthcare for All.

The average price of sanitary napkins available in the market today is around Rs. 8 per pad, whereas now with the launch of the SUVIDHA napkins at Rs. 2.50 per pad, this will go a long way in making the basic hygiene requirement aid for Women affordable for the underprivileged sections.

This is one of the most important requirement in ensuring the Health Security to that section of Women in India who still use unhygienic aids during menstrual period due to non-affordability of some of the popular brands of sanitary napkins available in the market today. Such unhygienic aids cause fungal infections, Reproductive Tract Infection, Urinary Tract Infection, Cervical cancer and also make women vulnerable to infertility.

According to the National Family Health Survey 2015-16, about 58 percent of women aged between 15 to 24 years use locally prepared napkins, sanitary napkins and tampons. Further, about 78 percent women in urban areas use hygienic methods of protection during menstrual period; only 48 percent women in rural areas have access to clean sanitary napkins.