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Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-09-18 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Government Policies & Interventions, Health, Welfare Schemes ///Category — GS Paper 2 ///Published — 2026-09-18 ///Exam — Both Prelims and Mains ///Tags — Government Policies & Interventions, Health, Welfare Schemes ///

News · GS Paper 2

PMBJP Expands Beyond Medicines to Full Healthcare Basket

The Government is expanding PMBJP beyond affordable generic medicines to include surgical products, medical consumables, devices and supportive-care products. With over 18,000–20,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras and a target of 25,000 by March 2027, the scheme has generated estimated citizen savings of ₹37,200 crore (2021–22 to 2025–26). It is a key UPSC-relevant initiative on affordable healthcare and reducing out-of-pocket expenditure.

2026-09-18

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Why in News?

The Government is expanding the scope of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) beyond affordable medicines by introducing a wider healthcare basket of surgical products, medical consumables, healthcare devices and supportive-care products.

Key Facts About PMBJP

About: PMBJP is a government initiative providing quality-assured generic medicines at significantly lower prices through a nationwide network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs).
Launch: November 2008, by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
Coverage: Over 18,000 Kendras operational (network of over 20,000), offering 2,110 medicines and 315 surgical items, consumables and devices across major therapeutic categories.
Sales & Savings: During 2021–22 to 2025–26, PMBJP recorded ₹7,873.85 crore in sales, generating estimated savings of around ₹37,200 crore for citizens.
Affordability: Medicines are generally 50–80% cheaper than comparable branded medicines.
Quality Assurance:
Procured from manufacturers compliant with WHO-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices).
Tested at NABL-accredited laboratories.
Expansion Target: 25,000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by March 2027, including rural and remote areas, via a franchise-based model.
Citizen-Centric Initiatives:
Janaushadhi Suvidha Oxo-biodegradable sanitary napkins at ₹1 per pad.
Jan Aushadhi Sugam mobile app — locate Kendras, check medicine availability, compare prices.
Inclusive Entrepreneurship: Special incentives for women, Divyangjan, SCs, STs and entrepreneurs in disadvantaged regions.

Significance

Promotes affordable and equitable healthcare.
Reduces out-of-pocket expenditure on health.
Improves access to quality generic medicines, supporting lifecycle healthcare — infant and maternal care to disease monitoring, recovery and elderly care.
Supports inclusive entrepreneurship and self-employment.

Conclusion

PMBJP is evolving from an affordable medicines programme into a broader affordable healthcare ecosystem, making essential healthcare products accessible and affordable across all stages of life.