The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a Central Government scheme that makes quality generic medicines available to common people at affordable prices. It is run by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Under the scheme, Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been opened across the country, where medicines cost about 50 to 80 per cent less than branded medicines. The scheme began in 2008 as the Jan Aushadhi scheme.
How much cheaper are the medicines
Generic medicines sold at Jan Aushadhi Kendras contain the same active ingredient (salt) as the branded medicine, but cost about 50 to 80 per cent less. For example, if a branded medicine costs ₹100, its generic version may cost ₹20 to ₹50. According to the Government, citizens have saved about ₹40,000 crore in out-of-pocket spending on medicines through Janaushadhi products over the last 11 years. A generic medicine does not mean a fake or weak medicine — it is the same medicine, without the brand name.
What is available
Jan Aushadhi Kendras stock 2,110 medicines and 315 surgicals, medical consumables and devices. These cover all major therapeutic groups, such as cardiovascular, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, anti-infective, anti-allergic and gastro-intestinal medicines, along with nutraceuticals. Almost all generic medicines in the National List of Essential Medicines are part of the product basket. Since September 2024, Kendras have also been encouraged to stock the 200 most commonly used medicines, so that essential drugs are available at the Kendra itself.
How to find the nearest Kendra
As of June 2026, more than 19,200 Jan Aushadhi Kendras had been opened across the country, and the Government’s target is to reach 25,000 Kendras by March 2027. Of these, 2,370 Kendras have been opened inside government hospitals. As of 31 October 2025, 765 of the country’s 777 districts were covered under the scheme. To find the nearest Kendra, visit janaushadhi.gov.in — the website carries the list of Kendras and a search facility. Carry the doctor’s prescription when buying medicine, because generic medicines are sold under the same rules as any other medicine.
What if you want to open a Kendra
Applications to open a Jan Aushadhi Kendra are invited online at janaushadhi.gov.in — individuals, non-governmental organisations, societies, trusts, firms and private companies can apply. Kendra owners get an incentive of up to 10 per cent of monthly purchases, and a one-time special incentive of ₹2 lakh is given for Kendras opened in North-Eastern States, Himalayan areas, island territories and Aspirational Districts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How much cheaper are medicines at Jan Aushadhi Kendras?
A: About 50 to 80 per cent cheaper than branded medicines — the same active ingredient, at a lower price.
Q2: How do I find the nearest Jan Aushadhi Kendra?
A: On the janaushadhi.gov.in website, which carries the list of Kendras and a search facility.
Q3: How many medicines are available at Jan Aushadhi Kendras?
A: 2,110 medicines and 315 surgicals, medical consumables and devices.
Q4: How many Jan Aushadhi Kendras are there in the country?
A: More than 19,200 Kendras as of June 2026; the target is 25,000 Kendras by March 2027.
Useful links
- Janaushadhi official portal: https://janaushadhi.gov.in/
- Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana on MyScheme: https://www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/pmbjp
- Next Action: see all 726 Central Government schemes — /english/kendra-sarkar-ki-yojnayen-2/
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