PMBJP (Syllabus: GS Paper 2 – Government Schemes)

Context: Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is participating in the 42nd Indian International Trade Fair being held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)

• Launched by: the Department of Pharmaceuticals in collaboration with Central Pharma Public Sector Undertakings.
• Affordable Medicines: Provides generic medicines at significantly reduced prices.
• Objective: To make generic medicines available to the public at significantly lower prices compared to expensive branded medicines in the open market.
• The scheme mandates the establishment of at least one Janaushadhi Store in each district across the country.

• Salient Features of PMBJP
• Approval and Financial Support:  PMBJP has received approval for continuation by State Financial Corporations (SFCs) with a financial outlay of Rs. 490 crore for the period 2020-2021 to 2024-2025.
• Goals: The ambitious target is to open 10,500 PMBJP Kendras nationwide by March 2025.
• Incentives for Kendra Owners: The incentive provided to Kendra owners has been increased from the previous Rs. 2.5 lakh to up to Rs. 5 lakh. 
• Special Grants: A special one-time grant of up to Rs. 2 lakh is available for specified categories aiming to open PMBJP Kendras.
• Quality Assurance: Medicines under the scheme are procured from World Health Organisation – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP) certified suppliers to ensure the quality of the products.