Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2025: Advancing affordable healthcare and access to quality medicines
Jan Aushadhi Diwas, observed annually on March 7, celebrates the promotion and accessibility of affordable generic medicines under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP).
A week-long celebration, held from March 1 to 7, highlights the initiative’s pivotal role in providing cost-effective, high-quality healthcare to the public.
Launched in 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, PMBJP addresses the issue of expensive branded medicines by offering affordable, generic alternatives.
Its goal is to ensure that quality healthcare is accessible to all, especially the economically disadvantaged, through a nationwide network of over 15,000 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).
A key objective of the PMBJP is to educate the public on the affordability and efficacy of generic medicines, countering the common misconception that higher prices equate to better quality.
The scheme demonstrates that generic drugs offer the same therapeutic value as their branded counterparts, but at a fraction of the cost. The initiative also encourages healthcare professionals, particularly in government hospitals, to prescribe these affordable alternatives, promoting cost-effective treatments.
Expanding Access to Affordable Healthcare
India, a global leader in generic medicine exports, continues to face challenges with domestic access to affordable medication.
Branded drugs are often sold at significantly higher prices, despite offering the same therapeutic benefits as generics. By providing essential generic medicines at 50%-80% lower prices than branded alternatives, PMBJP ensures that quality healthcare products reach every section of society, with a focus on marginalized communities.
One of the key products offered under the scheme is the Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin, launched in August 2019. Priced at just Rs 1 per pad, it addresses women’s health and hygiene needs across the country. As of January 2025, over 720 million of these sanitary napkins have been sold through Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
In addition, the Jan Aushadhi SUGAM mobile application, launched in August 2019, enhances access to PMBJP services. The app allows users to locate nearby Janaushadhi Kendras, search for generic medicines, and compare prices between generic and branded drugs, offering a convenient tool for managing healthcare costs.
Medicines provided under the Jan Aushadhi scheme are sourced exclusively from WHO-GMP certified manufacturers, with each batch undergoing testing at NABL-accredited laboratories to ensure safety and effectiveness.
The initiative also supports entrepreneurship by providing financial incentives to entrepreneurs, particularly in remote areas, and offers opportunities for marginalized groups, such as women and ex-servicemen, to operate PMBJKs.
Celebrating Jan Aushadhi Diwas 2025
The 2025 celebration of Jan Aushadhi Diwas began on March 1, with Union Health Minister JP Nadda inaugurating a nationwide awareness campaign in the National Capital Region (NCR). The first day saw the launch of promotional vehicles spreading awareness about PMBJP across NCR. On the second day, more than 500 health camps were organized alongside heritage walks and Jan Arogya Melas. The third day focused on children’s health, distributing nutraceuticals, while the fourth day highlighted women’s health and promoted Jan Aushadhi Suvidha sanitary napkins.
Pharmacist awareness seminars were held in 30 cities on the fifth day, followed by the Jan Aushadhi Mitra Volunteer Registration Campaign on the sixth day, encouraging community involvement in the initiative. The week culminates on March 7 with a grand celebration, honoring the scheme’s achievements and its impact on public health.
