PMBJP

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana

6.8/10

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, in November 2008. Under the scheme, dedicated outlets known as Janaushadhi Kendras are opened to make quality generic medicines available to all at affordable prices.

Central Composite

States / UT: All India

Ministry / nodal: Ministry Of Chemicals And Fertilizers

Nodal department: Department Of Pharmaceuticals

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes

Scheme open date: 2008-04-23

Categories: Business & Entrepreneurship, Health & Wellness, Skills & Employment, Social welfare & Empowerment

Sub-categories: Health promotion, Medicine and health products

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Medicine, Pharmaceutical, Healthcare, Entrepreneur, Janaushadhi, Generic Drugs

Details

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana — scheme image

The scheme "Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)" was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, in November 2008. The branded (Generic) medicines are sold at significantly higher prices than their un-branded generic equivalents, though are identical in therapeutic value. Given the widespread poverty across the country, making available reasonably priced quality generic medicines in the market would benefit everyone.
Objectives:
To make quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all. Under the scheme, dedicated outlets known as Janaushadhi Kendras are opened to provide generic medicines at affordable prices. Janaushadhi Kendras are functional nationwide. The product basket of PMBJP comprises drugs and surgical items. The scheme is implemented by a society registered under the Societies Registration Act, viz., Pharma & Medical Bureau of India (PMBI), [erstwhile Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI)].

  1. Ensure access to quality medicines for all sections of the population, especially the poor and the deprived ones.
  2. Create awareness about generic medicines through education and publicity to counter the perception that quality is synonymous with high prices only.
  3. Generate employment by engaging individual entrepreneurs in the opening of the PMBJP Kendra.

Benefits

  • The Scheme is operated by government agencies as well as by private entrepreneurs: 1. Prices of the Jan Aushadhi medicines are 50%-80% less than that of branded medicine’s prices available in the open market. 1. Medicines are procured only from World Health Organization – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP) certified manufacturers for ensuring the quality of the products. 1. Each batch of drug is tested at laboratories accredited by ‘National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories’ (NABL) for ensuring best quality. 1. The incentive up to ₹20 000/- per month is given @ 20% of monthly purchases made and subject to the stocking mandate. 1. One-time incentives of ₹2 00 000 is provided to the PMBJP Kendras opened in North-Eastern States
  • Himalayan areas
  • Island territories and backward areas mentioned as aspirational district by NITI Aayog or opened by women entrepreneur
  • Ex-serviceman Divyang
  • SC & ST. 1. The operating agency will be provided a 20% margin on the MRP (excluding taxes) of each drug. Janaushadhi Suvidha Sanitary Napkin As an important step in ensuring the health security for Indian women
  • Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkins were launched on 27th August 2019 to be made available at ₹1/- per pad only. Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Napkins are being made available for sale in PMBJP Kendras across the country

The Scheme is operated by government agencies as well as by private entrepreneurs:

  1. Prices of the Jan Aushadhi medicines are 50%-80% less than that of branded medicine’s prices available in the open market.
  2. Medicines are procured only from World Health Organization – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP) certified manufacturers for ensuring the quality of the products.
  3. Each batch of drug is tested at laboratories accredited by ‘National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories’ (NABL) for ensuring best quality.
  4. The incentive up to ₹20,000/- per month is given @ 20% of monthly purchases made and subject to the stocking mandate.
  5. One-time incentives of ₹2,00,000 is provided to the PMBJP Kendras opened in North-Eastern States, Himalayan areas, Island territories and backward areas mentioned as aspirational district by NITI Aayog or opened by women entrepreneur, Ex-serviceman Divyang, SC & ST.
  6. The operating agency will be provided a 20% margin on the MRP (excluding taxes) of each drug.

Janaushadhi Suvidha Sanitary Napkin

As an important step in ensuring the health security for Indian women, Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkins were launched on 27th August 2019 to be made available at ₹1/- per pad only. Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Napkins are being made available for sale in PMBJP Kendras across the country.

Eligibility

  • Individual applicants must have a D. Pharma/B. Pharma degree, or he/she has to employ D. Pharma/B. Pharma degree holders and produce proof of the same at the time of submitting applications or at the time of final approval.
  • Any organization or NGO applying for a PMBJK will have to employ B. Pharma / D. Pharma degree holders and produce proof of the same at the time of submitting applications or at the time of final approval.
  • In government hospital premises, including medical colleges, the preferred agencies would be reputed NGOs/Charitable organizations, but individuals would also be eligible.

How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

6.8
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 8.0/10 Good
Rural usefulness 5.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 6.5/10 Moderate
Financial impact 6.0/10 Moderate
Literacy barrier 5.0/10 Moderate
Women inclusivity 9.0/10 Good
Awareness 8.5/10 Good
Implementation reliability 8.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility8.0
  • Financial impact6.0
  • Rural utility5.0
  • Awareness8.5
  • Simplicity3.5
  • Inclusivity9.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme provides affordable access to quality generic medicines, benefiting a wide range of individuals, especially the economically disadvantaged.

Key challenges addressed

  • High cost of branded medicines
  • Limited access to quality healthcare products

Most beneficial for

  • Low-income individuals
  • Women
  • Elderly citizens

Likely challenges

  • Complex application process for first-time applicants
  • Limited awareness in rural areas

Practical insights for citizens

Practical for those who can navigate the application process and have access to necessary documents

Rural challenges

  • Limited internet access
  • Lack of awareness about the scheme

Digital challenges

  • Dependence on online application may exclude some rural applicants

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Complex eligibility requirements
  • Need for proof of qualifications

Awareness challenges

  • Low awareness in rural areas about generic medicines

Application analysis

Application mode
Online + Offline
Documents burden
Moderate, requires several documents
Verification complexity
High, involves multiple checks
Office dependency
Moderate, can apply online but may need to visit offices
DBT dependency
No direct benefit transfer involved
CSC support
Available for assistance
Estimated citizen effort
High, due to multiple steps in the application process

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach High
  • Target income group Low-income groups
  • Occupation reach Individuals in healthcare and entrepreneurship

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Composite
Benefit frequency
One-time and ongoing incentives
Benefit practicality
High, as it significantly reduces medicine costs
Financial meaningfulness
High, with savings of 50%-80% on medicines
Long-term impact
Positive, as it promotes health security and entrepreneurship

Plain-language guidance

This scheme helps individuals open stores that sell affordable generic medicines. It aims to make healthcare products accessible to everyone, especially those in need.

Who should apply
Individuals with pharmacy qualifications or those who can employ qualified pharmacists.
Who may struggle
First-time applicants and those with limited digital skills.
Best application route
Apply via the official website or local CSC with necessary documents.

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Online

Step 1: Visit the official website on : https://janaushadhi.gov.in/.
Step 2: Click on the ‘APPLY FOR KENDRA’ Tab.
Step 3: Click on the ‘CLICK HERE TO APPLY’ Tab.
Step 4: Click on the tab ‘REGISTER NOW” and fill in the applicant’s details with a unique Mobile number & Email ID.
Step 5: After successful registration, the applicant will get an email containing a unique ‘USER ID & PASSWORD’ for Portal login
Step 6: Log in with your USER ID and PASSWORD received or created through the registered email ID
Step 7: The application processing fee amount must be deposited only in the PMBI's virtual account.
Step 8: Fill out the application form carefully.

  • (Basic information with details of application processing fee under Govt. Category) &
  • (Proposed Kendra Details) and other relevant details.

Step 9: Upload the documents e.g., PACS ID, Certificate of Incorporation, PAN Card, Aadhaar Card, Bank Statement for 6 months, etc.
Step 10: Each document must be uploaded under a size of 200KB in PDF/JPEG/PNG/JPG format only.
Step 11: Review the filled-out application & click on the final Submit button.
Note: After completing the above steps, the application form has been submitted successfully and confirmation will be shared on the registered email ID of the applicant. The applicant can also check their application status online at any time by login into the same portal or can call us on the helpline number 18001808080.

Offline

Step 1: Download the applicant form from the official website.
Step 2: Fill out all the necessary details with the self-declaration.
Step 3: Submit the application form at the given address-:
Chief Executive Officer, Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), 8th Floor Videocon Tower, Block E-1, Jhandewalan Extension, New Delhi –110055. Telephone -: 011-49431800.
Application Fee: Non-refundable application fees of Rs 5,000/- are to be deposited along with the application form. Application fee is not applicable in case of applicant is under the category of Women Entrepreneurs, Divyang, SC, ST & any entrepreneurs of aspirational districts as notified by the NITI Aayog, in Himalayan, Island territories and North-Eastern states.

Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

What Is Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)?

‘Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)’ is a campaign launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals in association with Central Pharma Public Sector Undertakings to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses through dedicated outlets called 'Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra'. These provide generic medicines at a much lower price. The potency of these medicines is the same as compared to expensive branded medicines available on the open market.

What Is A Generic Medicine?

Generic drugs are marketed under a non-proprietary or approved name rather than a proprietary or brand name. Generic drugs are equally effective and inexpensive compared to their branded counterparts.

What Is PMBI?

PMBI (Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India) has been established under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Govt. of India, with the support of all the CPSUs for co-coordinating procurement, supply, and marketing of generic drugs through the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras.

How The Quality, Safety And Efficacy Of Medicines Are Ensured?

The quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines are ensured by getting each batch of medicines procured from CPSUs as well as private suppliers tested from NABL-approved laboratories and conforming to the required standards before the same are supplied to Super stockists /Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras from the warehouse of PMBI.

Are Generic Drugs As Effective As Branded Ones?

Generic drugs have the same efficacy and therapeutic value as that of branded medicines.

How Do Generic Medicines Benefit The Patients?

By taking generic medicines, a patient can reduce his/her expenditure on medicines drastically.

What Are The Medicines Available From Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendras And What Are Their Prices?

The endeavor of PMBI is to make available all therapeutic medicines at Jan Aushadhi Stores. A list of medicines with their MRP which are presently available is given under the heading “PMBJP Products- Therapeutic groups” on the website of PMBI. More medicines are being added to this list.

How Many Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendras Have Been Opened And What Are Their Locations?

More than 16000 are currently functional. A list of State-wise / District-wise PMBJK along with their locations are available under the heading “PMBJP => PMBJP Kendra” on the website of PMBI.

How The Medicines Are Procured And Supplied To Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendras?

Medicines are procured through an open tender system from private manufacturers as well as CPSUs. Each batch of procured medicines are duly tested from impanelled NABL laboratories and sent to Kendra through distribution network.

Who Can Open A Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendras?

Individual entrepreneur / Proprietor Partnership Charitable Institute/Hospital NGO/ Trust/ Society Government/ Government Nominated Agency Any Other (Please specify)

What Are The Requirements For Opening A Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra By An Organization / Individual Other Than A Government Nominated?

Own space or hired space duly supported by the proper lease agreement Minimum required space conforming to standards as approved by the PMBI Sale license from competent authority (Retail drug license in the name of the applicant and/or Tin No.) Proof of securing a pharmacist (name of the pharmacist, Registration with the State Council etc. needs to be furnished) Financial capacity to run the Store by submitting the document (ITR, Bank Statement, PAN/Aadhar, etc.) Drug License in name of “Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra”.

What is the procedure for opening a Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras?

For detailed guidelines and procedures, please click “Apply for Kendra” on our website.

References

Guidelines
https://janaushadhi.gov.in/pdf/Guidelines_for_PMBJK_Opening.pdf
Official Website
https://janaushadhi.gov.in/

Apply

Apply now

Opens the official application or programme portal in a new tab. If in doubt, confirm details on the ministry site.

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual through benefits related to Business & Entrepreneurship, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Eligibility for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Benefits under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana is managed by Department Of Pharmaceuticals and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Applications for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana a central government scheme?
Yes, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
Does Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana provide healthcare or insurance support?
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana may provide healthcare assistance, insurance coverage, cashless treatment support, medical reimbursement, or hospital-related benefits depending on the scheme structure.
Can beneficiaries use Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana at government hospitals?
Eligible beneficiaries may be able to access services at empanelled hospitals, government healthcare facilities, or authorised healthcare providers depending on scheme participation rules.
Does Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana provide business loan or startup assistance?
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana may support entrepreneurs, startups, self-employed individuals, MSMEs, or small businesses through financial assistance, subsidies, credit support, or training initiatives.
Is collateral required under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Collateral requirements may vary depending on the loan amount, implementing agency, financial institution, and government subsidy structure.
Can CSC centres help users apply for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Are there deadlines for applying to Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Some schemes may operate through fixed application windows, annual registration cycles, or department-specific deadlines depending on scheme implementation policies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana in All India?
Users in All India may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana applications?
Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.