Important Indian Scheme · Health / Pharma
PM Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
A scheme to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices through Janaushadhi Kendras.
Overview
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a scheme implemented by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices to all. Originally started in 2008 and relaunched in 2015 as PMBJP, the scheme sells generic drugs — which are equivalent in quality and efficacy to branded medicines but much cheaper — through dedicated outlets called Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs). It aims to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure for citizens and to create awareness about generic medicines.
Quick Snapshot
Launched2008 (relaunched 2015)
MinistryChemicals & Fertilizers
OutletsJanaushadhi Kendras
FocusGeneric Medicines
Key Features & Objectives
1
Sells quality generic medicines at significantly lower prices than branded drugs.
2
Operates through dedicated outlets called Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).
3
Implemented by the Department of Pharmaceuticals (Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers).
4
Reduces out-of-pocket health expenditure for the common citizen.
5
Creates awareness that generic medicines are equally effective as branded ones.
Key Facts at a Glance
Exam Focus: Remember PMBJP sells generic medicines through Janaushadhi Kendras, under the Department of Pharmaceuticals (Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers), relaunched in 2015.
Practice MCQs
Q1. PMBJP provides citizens with affordable:
A. Generic medicines ✔
B. Insurance
C. Loans
D. Fertilisers
Q2. The retail outlets under PMBJP are called:
A. Jan Seva Kendras
B. Janaushadhi Kendras ✔
C. Aushadhi Marts
D. Health ATMs
Q3. PMBJP is implemented by which department?
A. Department of Health
B. Department of Pharmaceuticals ✔
C. Department of Commerce
D. Department of Science
Q4. PMBJP in its current form was relaunched in which year?
A. 2012
B. 2014
C. 2015 ✔
D. 2017
Q5. A key objective of PMBJP is to:
A. Reduce out-of-pocket medicine costs ✔
B. Build highways
C. Provide pensions
D. Promote exports