The Central Government’s initiative, Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which provide medicines at significantly lower prices compared to the market, is set to expand its reach.
In a bid to cater to rural areas, the government plans to open 2,000 new Jan Aushadhi Kendras, specifically in agricultural credit societies.
The Ministry of Cooperation announced this development on Tuesday, stating that approval has been granted to open Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras in 2,000 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) nationwide.
1000 centers will open by August
Around 1,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras are scheduled to be operational by August, with the remaining centers opening by December, as per the ministry’s statement.
Cooperation Minister Amit Shah and Chemicals and Fertilizers Minister Mansukh Mandaviya held a meeting where they decided to authorize PACS committees to establish Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
A total of 2,000 PACS committees will be selected from across the country for this purpose.
The Ministry of Cooperation highlighted that this significant decision will not only boost the income and employment opportunities of PACS societies but also ensure affordable access to medicines for the public.
Up to 90 percent cheaper medicines are available here
Currently, there are over 9,400 Jan Aushadhi Kendras nationwide that offer affordable medicines. These centers supply approximately 1,800 drugs and 285 medical devices.
The prices of these medicines are considerably lower, ranging from 50 to 90 percent compared to branded medicines available in the market.
To open a Jan Aushadhi Kendra, applicants must have a minimum of 120 square feet of space and pay an application fee of Rs 5,000.
