In November 2008, India's healthcare sector witnessed an important change with the formation of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana, a central government initiative aiming to provide effective healthcare for every citizen by offering branded medicines at a reasonable price.
In September 2015, the scheme was revamped and renamed as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) to enhance its reach and impact.
What is Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Yojana (PMJAY)?
Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana, or PMBJP Yojana, is a welfare programme by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers. The scheme's primary aim is to make quality generic medicines available at affordable prices, thereby reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for the public. Dedicated outlets known as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK) have been established to ensure the availability of these medicines nationwide.
Benefits of Jan Aushadhi Pradhan Mantri Yojana
The benefits of PM Aushadhi Yojana are:
- PMBJKs offer generic medicines at prices 50% – 90% lower than branded counterparts, making healthcare more accessible.
- Medicines are sourced from WHO-GMP certified manufacturers and undergo testing at NABL-accredited laboratories to ensure quality and efficacy.
- The scheme provides over 2,000 medicines and 300 surgical items across various therapeutic categories.
- PMBJP encourages individual entrepreneurs, NGOs and organisations to open PMBJKs, thereby generating employment opportunities.
- Kendra owners receive incentives up to ₹5,00,000, with additional one-time incentives for Kendras in underserved regions and those opened by marginalised groups.
- Encourages government healthcare practitioners and other employees to prescribe generic medicines to promote cost-effective treatments without compromising quality.
- To promote equitable healthcare access, Janaushadhi Kendras opened in Northeastern states, Himalayan regions, island territories and backward areas are eligible for a one-time special incentive.
- Additional incentives are also available for applicants from Divyang (persons with disabilities), Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
- As part of its commitment to women's health, the scheme also provides Janaushadhi Suvidha Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkins at an affordable price of just ₹1 per pad, ensuring access to safe and hygienic menstrual products for all.
Eligibility under PM Aushadhi Yojana
To be eligible to run a PM Jan Aushadhi Yojana Kendra, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Educational Qualification: Must possess a D. Pharma or B. Pharma degree or employ qualified pharmacists.
- Premises: A minimum area of 120 sq. ft. with proper lease or ownership documents.
- Licenses: Valid Sale License and Drug License in the name of "Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra."
- Additional Documents: PAN card, Aadhaar card, SC/ST certificate (if applicable), bank statement, ITR certificate and GST registration.
How to apply for PM Jan Aushadhi Yojana?
You can apply for the Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Yojana scheme either online or offline. For online applications, you need to:
- Visit the online portal of the Janaushadhi government website.
- Click on the 'Apply to Kendra' tab and click on the 'Register' option.
- Fill in essential information with your mobile number and Email ID.
- After registration, the applicant can log in using the provided username and password.
- Through PMBI's virtual account, an application process fee must be deposited.
- Complete the application filling process.
- Upload the required documents as per the instructions provided.
- After rechecking the details, click the final submission button to complete the submission process.
Documents required for Pradhan Mantri Aushadhi Yojana
To register under Pradhan Mantri Aushadhi Yojana, you need essential documents,
- A minimum area of 120 sq feet with the proper lease agreement or ownership allotted letter.
- Pharmacist's name and Registration with State Council.
- Proof of financial support to run a Janaushadhi Kendra.
- Sale License from a Competent Authority
- A drug license must be submitted in the name of "Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra".
For regular and special incentives, one must submit the necessary documents,
- Pan card
- Aadhaar card
- SC/ST certificate
- Pharmacist Registration Certificate
- Bank statement
- ITR certificate
- GST
FAQs
1. Is there any application fee for registration?
There is a non-refundable application fee of ₹5,000 for the registration process. However, certain categories such as women entrepreneurs, persons with disabilities (Divyang), SCs, STs and applicants from aspirational districts are exempt from this fee, subject to providing necessary documentation.
2. Can NGOs and private organisations run a Janaushadhi Kendra?
Yes, NGOs and private organisations can apply to open a Janaushadhi Kendra, provided they employ qualified pharmacists. They must meet the same eligibility criteria as individual applicants.
Conclusion
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a powerful step toward making healthcare more accessible and affordable for all. While affordable medicines are a major part of healthcare, having the right health insurance adds another essential layer of protection. A good health insurance plan can help manage unexpected medical expenses and ensure timely access to quality treatment. Exploring options like critical illness insurance or family floater plans can provide added financial security alongside initiatives like PMBJP.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.