According to the latest update shared by the Press Information Bureau, applicants can begin the process by visiting the Jan Aushadhi Kendra website and submitting their application digitally.

The initiative aims to expand the network of stores that provide affordable generic medicines across the country.

What is a Jan Aushadhi Kendra?

Jan Aushadhi Kendras are specialised outlets that sell high-quality generic medicines at significantly lower prices than branded drugs. This initiative aims to provide good-quality generic medicines through specialised stores at 50-80 per cent lower prices than branded medicines, according to PIB. These centres operate under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), a government initiative aimed at reducing healthcare costs for people. It aims to make healthcare affordable, with over 18,000 centres planned for 25,000 by 2027.

How to apply online?

As per the information shared by the Press Information Bureau, applicants can apply online by following a few simple steps:

• Visit the official PMBJP website: janaushadhi.gov.in
• Click on the "Apply Online" option on the portal.
• Fill in the required details and upload the necessary documents.
• Submit the application and wait for verification by the authorities.

After approval, the applicant can proceed with setting up the Jan Aushadhi Kendra.

Who can open a Jan Aushadhi store?

The government allows several categories of applicants to open these outlets, including:

• Individual Entrepreneurs
• Registered Pharmacists
• Doctors
• Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs)
• Charitable Institutions
• Trusts and Private Hospitals

However, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having adequate retail space and the necessary licenses to sell medicines.

Key details of Jan Aushadhi Kendra

• Purpose: To reduce out-of-pocket expenditure on healthcare by providing affordable, high-quality generic medicines.
• Coverage: The product basket includes over 2,110 medicines and 315 surgical and medical devices and consumables.
• Accessibility: Over 16,912 Kendras are functional as of mid-2025, with a target of 25,000 by March 2027.
• Support: Special incentives up to Rs 2 lakh are provided to women, SC/ST, Divyangjan, and veterans to establish centres.
• Additional Products: The scheme includes affordable Jan Aushadhi Suvidha sanitary napkins priced at ₹1.
• Implementation: Managed by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers.