The government’s generic pharmacy stores, known as Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendras, will now stock the 200 most commonly used medicines 24/7. This move aims to provide affordable and quality medications to the poor. These 200 medicines include essentials like insulin, painkillers, multivitamins, antibiotics, diabetes management drugs, and anti-hypertension medicines.
Officials familiar with the plan revealed that this initiative is part of a broader strategy discussed at a recent governing council meeting of the Department of Pharmaceuticals. The plan is to maintain a minimum stock of these 200 drugs at Janaushadhi stores around the clock. This will be implemented in phases.
Currently, there are over 12,000 Janaushadhi stores across India. Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced plans to increase this number to 25,000 by 2026. The drugs at these stores are sourced from WHO-GMP-certified pharmaceutical companies, ensuring high quality and safety. The government also conducts random sampling and tests each batch of drugs at accredited laboratories.
The initiative to stock the top 200 medicines is expected to further lower the prices of essential medications, making them more accessible to the economically disadvantaged. Generic medicines at these stores are already 50-90% cheaper than branded ones. This price reduction is a significant relief for many, particularly those requiring regular medication for chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) is responsible for ensuring the availability of these quality medicines at affordable prices in Janaushadhi Kendras. This move aligns with the government’s goal to expand the reach of these stores, aiming to cover all districts in India. The target is to increase the number of stores to 15,000 by the end of this year, 20,000 by 2025, and finally 25,000 by the end of 2026 or early 2027.
Average monthly sales per Janaushadhi outlet have grown to about ₹1.50 lakh, indicating the high demand and importance of these stores. Despite several queries, the spokesperson for the Department of Pharmaceuticals has not yet responded.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/ Susmita Bhandary/MSM)