Jan Aushadhi Medical Store
The Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana (PMJAY), commonly known as the Jan Aushadhi Scheme, is an initiative by the Government of India to provide affordable and quality medicines to the masses. It was launched in 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
The main objectives of the scheme are:
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Affordable Medicines: To make quality medicines available at affordable prices, especially for the underprivileged sections of society.
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Setting up Jan Aushadhi Kendras: The government has set up Jan Aushadhi stores (Kendras) across the country where generic medicines are available at much lower prices compared to branded medicines. These stores are spread across various public and private healthcare settings.
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Generic Drugs: The medicines provided under the scheme are generic drugs, which are equivalent to branded medicines in terms of quality, efficacy, and safety but are sold at much lower prices.
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Empowering Healthcare Providers: The scheme also aims to promote the use of generic drugs among healthcare providers and the public, reducing the financial burden on patients who need regular medications.
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Expanding the Network: Over time, the scheme has expanded, with thousands of Jan Aushadhi stores now operational across India, improving access to affordable medicines, particularly in rural and remote areas.
The scheme is an effort to ensure that essential medicines are accessible to everyone, especially those who cannot afford high-priced branded drugs. It also promotes self-reliance in pharmaceutical production.
Pharmacists interested in applying for the Jan Aushadhi Scheme and opening a Jan Aushadhi Kendra (store) in India need to follow a structured process. Here’s how pharmacists can apply for the scheme:
Steps to Apply for a Jan Aushadhi Kendra:
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Eligibility Criteria:
- The applicant should be a registered pharmacist with a valid license.
- The applicant must have a minimum of 250 sq. ft. of space for setting up the store.
- The pharmacist should have experience in managing a pharmacy or retail business.
- Preference is given to applicants from backward and rural areas.
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Application Process:
- Visit the official website of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana or the Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Undertakings of India (BPPI), which is responsible for the implementation of the scheme.
- Download the application form for setting up a Jan Aushadhi Kendra from the BPPI website.
- BPPI website: https://janaushadhi.gov.in
- Alternatively, you can apply online through the BPPI’s online portal for Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
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Required Documents:
- Pharmacist Registration Certificate: Proof of being a registered pharmacist.
- Shop/Space Ownership Proof: The applicant should provide proof of ownership or lease agreement for the premises (minimum 250 sq. ft.).
- Aadhaar Card: Proof of identity and address.
- Bank Account Details: A bank account in the name of the applicant.
- Educational Qualifications: Copies of certificates proving qualifications, such as a diploma or degree in pharmacy.
- GST Registration (if applicable): If the applicant is required to register for GST.
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Submit the Application:
- Submit the completed application form along with the necessary documents to BPPI either through the online portal or offline (by post).
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Evaluation and Approval:
- After submission, BPPI will evaluate the application based on the eligibility criteria, available space, and the location of the proposed store.
- If approved, BPPI will issue an Authorization Letter to the applicant, allowing them to open a Jan Aushadhi Kendra.
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Agreement and Training:
- The approved applicant will have to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with BPPI.
- BPPI provides training to the pharmacist about the scheme, management of the store, and stock handling.
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Stock and Supply:
- Once the Kendra is set up and operational, BPPI will supply generic medicines at discounted rates.
- The pharmacist will be responsible for maintaining stock and selling medicines through the Jan Aushadhi Kendra.
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Start the Operation:
- After completing all formalities, the pharmacist can start the operation of the Jan Aushadhi Kendra and begin selling affordable generic medicines to the public.
Key Benefits for Pharmacists:
- Subsidized Medicines: Pharmacists will receive medicines at subsidized prices from BPPI.
- No Inventory Risk: BPPI ensures regular supply, so pharmacists do not need to worry about sourcing medicines.
- Incentives: Pharmacists receive incentives based on sales and performance.
This scheme offers a great opportunity for pharmacists to contribute to public healthcare by making affordable medicines accessible to people in need.