India’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) under the Department of Pharmaceuticals is set to celebrate its 4th Janaushadhi Diwas, with events set to generate awareness for generic medicines and the benefits of the Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana. Organized in line with the spirit of “Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav,” various activities have been planned at 75 locations, with this year’s theme being “Jan Aushadhi-Jan Upyogi”.
Introduction to Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
The PMBJP was initially launched in 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals as the Jan Aushadhi Campaign. It was later revamped in 2015-2016 by the Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Undertakings of India (BPPI), which operates under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers and is responsible for implementing the PMBJP. The BPPI also developed the Janaushadhi Sugam Application. The initiative ensures that medicines are priced at a maximum 50% of the average price of the top three branded medicines. As a result, Jan Aushadhi Medicines are at least 50% cheaper, and in some cases, 80-90% cheaper than their branded counterparts.
Objectives of the PMBJP
The main goal of the PMBJP is to make quality medicines, consumables, and surgical items affordable for everyone, thus reducing out-of-pocket expenses. The program also strives to debunk the misconception that low-cost generics are inferior or less effective than branded drugs. Generic medicines, although unbranded, are just as safe and effective. Additionally, the initiative aims to make menstrual health services easily accessible for all women across India through the Janaushadhi ‘Suvidha’ sanitary napkins.
Janaushadhi Kendra: PMBJP’s Pillar
Janaushadhi Kendras are essentially distribution centres for quality generic medicines. BPPI oversees these Kendras as part of the PMBJP initiative. The government’s target is to increase the number of Janaushadhi Kendras to 10,500 by March 2025 from the current count of 8,675 (as of 31st January 2022). The product assortment at these Kendras includes 1451 drugs and 240 surgical instruments, along with new additions like nutritional supplements, sanitizers, masks, glucometers, oximeters, and more.
Tracking the Performance of PMBJP
Throughout the 2021-2022 fiscal year (until January 31, 2022), PMBI has grossed sales of Rs. 751.42 Crore, saving citizens approximately Rs. 4500 Crore. Furthermore, with average monthly sales per store of Rs 1.50 lacs (including over-the-counter products), the scheme not only provides affordable healthcare but also promotes self-employment and sustainable income. It’s noteworthy that Over-The-Counter refers to medications available for purchase without prescriptions.