Jan Aushadhi Diwas is observed on 7 March to promote affordable and quality generic medicines under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). The initiative aims to reduce out-of-pocket health expenditure by making essential medicines available at lower prices through Jan Aushadhi Kendras across India.
What Jan Aushadhi Diwas Means
Jan Aushadhi Diwas is an annual awareness campaign led by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers. It marks the use of generic medicines and informs citizens that approved generics are safe, effective and cheaper than branded alternatives. The day is also used to expand public outreach on affordable healthcare.
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana
PMBJP is the government scheme behind the campaign. It provides low-cost medicines through dedicated retail outlets called Jan Aushadhi Kendras. These stores supply medicines for diabetes, hypertension, infections, cardiovascular diseases and other common conditions. The scheme also covers surgical products and medical consumables.
Coverage, Pricing and Quality
- Generic medicines are usually priced 50-90% lower than branded drugs.
- More than 2,047 medicines and around 300 surgical products are available.
- Medicines are sourced from WHO-GMP compliant manufacturers.
- They are tested in approved laboratories before distribution.
Expansion and Public Impact
The network has expanded rapidly across the country. Nearly 18,000 Kendras were operational by late 2025, with a target of 25,000 outlets by 2027. These outlets serve over 10 lakh people daily. The scheme has helped citizens save around Rs 30,000 crore on medicines. It also supports livelihoods for pharmacists, NGOs and small entrepreneurs while improving access to treatment for chronic diseases.
Last Modified: April 28, 2026