The government has removed the minimum distance requirement for opening Jan Aushadhi Kendras. Now, 25,000 centers will be opened across the country by 2027, making affordable generic medicines easily accessible to the public. Currently, 17,000 centers are operational, offering medicines at up to 90% lower prices.
New Delhi: In a significant decision taken on September 10, the central government has abolished the rule regarding the minimum distance for opening Jan Aushadhi Kendras. This will allow new centers to be opened in close proximity in densely populated cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Bengaluru. Under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), the government aims to open 25,000 stores nationwide by March 31, 2027. Currently, 17,000 centers are operational, providing 2,047 types of generic medicines and 300 surgical items at prices 50-90% lower than market rates.
Over 17,000 Centers Already Operational
Presently, 17,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras are functioning across the country. These centers offer 2,047 types of medicines and approximately 300 varieties of surgical supplies. The most significant feature of these medicines is that they are 50 to 90 percent cheaper compared to branded drugs. This substantially reduces the healthcare expenditure for patients and their families.
New Stores to Open Soon in Crowded Cities
According to media reports, with the removal of the distance rule, a larger number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras can now be established in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad. This will enable people to access affordable medicines closer to their homes. Officials state that many individuals wished to open centers in their cities but were unable to obtain permission due to the distance stipulation. This obstacle has now been removed.
The one-kilometer condition has also been lifted in 46 cities with a population exceeding 10 lakh. However, a condition has been imposed: if a Jan Aushadhi Kendra has been opened in a particular area within the last two years, a new center will only be permitted to open at the same location after the two-year period has elapsed. The one-kilometer rule will continue to apply in all other towns and smaller cities.
Direct Savings with Generic Medicines
Generic medicines available at Jan Aushadhi Kendras are significantly cheaper than their branded counterparts. In many cases, patients can save up to 90 percent. For instance, if a branded medicine costs ₹100, the equivalent generic medicine at a Jan Aushadhi Kendra is available for ₹10 to ₹20. The government believes that the establishment of new centers will further ease the accessibility of medicines and directly benefit the common populace.
New Employment Opportunities Will Also Be Created
The regulatory changes will not only make medicines affordable but also open avenues for new entrepreneurs. The government provides financial assistance to those who open these centers. Under the scheme, an incentive of up to ₹20,000 per month and a one-time grant of up to ₹2 lakh are provided. This will also create employment opportunities for youth and small-scale entrepreneurs.
The government has also ensured that the quality of medicines available at Jan Aushadhi Kendras is not compromised. All medicines are procured from pharmaceutical companies that adhere to the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards set by the World Health Organization. This means patients will receive not only affordable but also safe and effective medicines.
