New Delhi: The Centre said the Jan Aushadhi Kendras scheme continued to expand access to affordable healthcare by providing quality generic medicines at prices 50% to 80% lower than branded alternatives.
The government launched the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana to ensure affordable medicines for all citizens. Under the scheme, dedicated Jan Aushadhi Kendras operate across the country and supply low-cost generic drugs.
Officials said the product basket under the scheme now included 2,110 medicines and 315 surgical items, medical consumables and devices. These products covered major therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular care, cancer treatment, diabetes management, anti-infectives, anti-allergic medicines, gastro-intestinal drugs and nutraceuticals.
According to the government, the wide range ensured that patients across income groups could access essential medicines without financial strain. Moreover, the scheme aimed to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure for families.
To improve acceptance and awareness, the implementing agency, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India, regularly conducted outreach programmes. It carried out campaigns in coordination with platforms such as PIB, MyGov, MY Bharat and the Central Bureau of Communication.
Jan Aushadhi Kendras awareness drive and expansion plan
Officials said PMBI used multiple channels for public outreach. These included print media, television, radio, social media platforms, outdoor hoardings and community engagement activities. In addition, the agency used WhatsApp chatbots and outbound calls to inform citizens about product quality and cost savings.
The government also observed Jan Aushadhi Week every year during the first week of March. During this period, agencies organised public rallies, health camps, seminars in pharmacy colleges and children-focused programmes to spread awareness.
Authorities further said audio and video messages from public representatives and eminent doctors helped dispel myths about generic medicines. Meanwhile, rural outreach continued through health camps, street plays, audiovisual displays at Common Service Centres and local workshops conducted with nearby Kendras.
With a focus on wider availability, the government set a target to open 20,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country by March 31, 2026. This expansion included Union Territories such as Dadra and Nagar Haveli.
The government clarified that it did not fix state-wise or Union Territory-wise targets. Instead, it aimed to ensure uniform access to affordable medicines nationwide through steady expansion of the scheme.
