New Delhi, June 18: The number of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) has increased to over 19,200 across the country, rising sharply from just 84 in 2014, the Government of India said on Wednesday.
The expansion reflects a significant scale-up of the affordable healthcare initiative aimed at improving access to quality generic medicines for citizens at lower costs.
Officials said the Jan Aushadhi scheme is designed to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure by providing medicines at prices significantly lower than branded alternatives while maintaining quality standards approved by regulatory authorities.
The scheme has expanded its reach across urban and rural areas, including remote and underserved regions, ensuring wider availability of essential medicines through dedicated retail outlets.
Health officials noted that the growth in Kendras has contributed to increasing awareness and acceptance of generic medicines among patients, helping to improve affordability in healthcare delivery.
The government reiterated its commitment to further strengthening the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras to ensure that essential medicines remain accessible and affordable to all sections of society.
