Janaushadhi Diwas Promoting Affordable Generic Medicines in India

Observance of Janaushadhi Diwas

Janaushadhi Diwas Promoting Affordable Generic Medicines in India: Janaushadhi Diwas is observed every year to promote awareness about the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) and the benefits of affordable generic medicines. The campaign encourages citizens to adopt cost-effective medicines without compromising quality.

The initiative also highlights the government’s commitment to making healthcare accessible for all sections of society. Awareness events, medical camps, and public outreach programmes are organised across the country during this period.

Static GK fact: India observes Janaushadhi Diwas on March 7 every year, marking the importance of affordable medicines in public health policy.

Evolution of PMBJP

The scheme was originally launched in 2008 as the Jan Aushadhi Scheme with the objective of providing quality medicines at lower prices. It was later revamped and renamed Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in 2015 to expand its reach and strengthen implementation.

The Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers acts as the nodal agency for this programme. Implementation is carried out by the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI).

The scheme aims to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure on medicines by promoting the use of reliable generic drugs across India.

Static GK Tip: Generic medicines contain the same active ingredients as branded medicines but are sold at significantly lower prices.

Expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras

A key component of PMBJP is the establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) across the country. These centres provide high-quality generic medicines at affordable prices through a franchise-based model.

More than 18,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been set up across India, including in rural and remote regions. The scheme has also expanded into innovative locations such as railway stations, helping travellers and migrant workers access low-cost medicines.

The government has also encouraged cooperative sector participation to strengthen last-mile delivery of medicines in rural areas.

Static GK fact: India has one of the largest pharmaceutical industries globally and is often called the “Pharmacy of the World.”

Key Initiatives under PMBJP

Several initiatives have been introduced under PMBJP to improve accessibility and awareness.

The Janaushadhi Suvidha Sanitary Napkin programme provides oxo-biodegradable sanitary pads at ₹1 per pad, improving affordable menstrual hygiene for women. This initiative supports women’s health and promotes hygiene awareness.

The Jan Aushadhi Sugam Mobile App helps citizens locate nearby Jan Aushadhi Kendras, check medicine availability, and compare prices with branded medicines. This digital tool increases transparency and convenience for users.

Together, these initiatives strengthen the objective of universal access to essential medicines.

Major Achievements of the Scheme

The programme has achieved significant milestones in improving healthcare affordability. By June 2025, medicines worth approximately ₹7,700 crore were sold through Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

This has resulted in estimated public savings of around ₹38,000 crore, reducing financial burdens on patients. The scheme currently offers over 2,000 medicines and more than 300 surgical items, covering multiple therapeutic categories.

These achievements demonstrate the growing acceptance of generic medicines among the Indian population.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Janaushadhi Diwas Promoting Affordable Generic Medicines in India: