New Delhi, Pragati Maidan: Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, visited the Jan Aushadhi Stall at the 42nd India International Trade Fair held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The visit aimed to oversee the operations of the stall, which played a pivotal role in spreading awareness about the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana.
During his inspection, the Minister expressed appreciation for the stall’s efforts in providing information about the Government of India’s initiative to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare nationwide.
The 42nd India International Trade Fair, taking place from November 14 to 27, 2023, provided a platform for the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) to set up a demonstration stall in Hall No. 5 (Stall No. 8-B). The stall aimed to educate the public about the salient features of the project and promote awareness about the affordable and high-quality medicines available through Jan Aushadhi.
Launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India, the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana aims to make quality generic medicines accessible at affordable prices. As of October 31, 2023, there are 9998 functional Janaushadhi Kendras across the country, offering 1965 drugs and 293 surgical equipment at prices 50% to 90% lower than branded medicines. This initiative has significantly reduced the prices of more than 1965 quality medicines, making them accessible to a larger section of the population, particularly those with chronic diseases and financial constraints.
Over the past nine years, the number of Janaushadhi Kendras has grown from 80 in 2014 to over 9998, covering almost all districts of the country. In the financial year 2022-23, PMBJP sold Jan Aushadhi Medicines worth Rs. 1236 Crore, resulting in savings of approximately Rs. 7416 Cr. for citizens. The scheme has witnessed remarkable growth, increasing the number of Kendras by 100 times and sales by more than 170 times, leading to a total savings of approximately Rs. 23,000 crores for citizens over the past nine years.