Jan Aushadhi Diwas
Syllabus: Government Policies, Health, Welfare Schemes (UPSC, Prelims GS II)
Source: PIB
What is Jan Aushadhi Diwas?
Every year, 7th March1 is celebrated as Jan Aushadhi Diwas to spread awareness about affordable generic medicines made available under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
The celebration includes a nationwide “Jan Aushadhi Week” from 1st–7th March.
Theme for 2025: “Daam Kam – Dawai Uttam”
(Highlights affordability and high-quality medicines for all)
About PMBJP
- Launched originally in 2008 as the Jan Aushadhi Scheme under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers.
- Revamped as Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana (PMJAY) in 2015.
- Renamed Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in 2016.
- Medicines are sold through Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).
Objectives of PMBJP
- To make high-quality medicines, consumables, and surgical items affordable and reduce out-of-pocket expenditure.
- To promote the use of generic medicines and remove misconceptions about their effectiveness.
- To ensure easy access to menstrual hygiene products for women across India.
- To generate employment opportunities by encouraging entrepreneurs to open Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
Key Features of PMBJP
- Medicines are sold at 50–80% lower prices than branded medicines.
- One-time incentive of ₹2 lakh for opening Janaushadhi Kendras in priority areas or for applicants who are:
- Women
- Ex-servicemen
- Divyang
- SC/ST candidates
- Suvidha Sanitary Napkins launched in 2019 at ₹1 per pad; sales crossed 72 crore units by January 2025.
- Jan Aushadhi SUGAM App helps users locate Kendras, compare prices, and find cheaper alternatives.
Progress of PMBJP (Year-wise Performance)
Number of PMBJP Kendras
| Financial Year | Yearly Addition | Cumulative Total |
|---|---|---|
| 2014–15 | 8 | 1053 |
| 2021–22 | 694 | 8610 |
| 2022–23 | 1957 | 3796 |
| 2023–24 | 1470 | 11261 |
| 2024–25 (as on 28.02.2025) | 1767 | 15057 |
Sales (MRP Value – in ₹ Crore)
| Financial Year | Sales (₹ Cr.) |
|---|---|
| 2014–15 | 7.29 |
| 2021–22 | 893.56 |
| 2022–23 | 1235.95 |
| 2023–24 | 1767 |
| 2024–25 (as on 28.02.2025) | 15057 |
Why Jan Aushadhi Diwas Matters
- Helps spread the message of affordable healthcare.
- Encourages people to shift toward quality-assured generic medicines.
- Supports the Government’s aim of reducing out-of-pocket expenditure, which is still high in India.
- Boosts rural and small-town access to essential medicines.
- Question Reference
(HPAS PYQ 2025) ↩︎
