PMBJP:Want to Open a Janaushadhi Kendra? Check Eligibility, Benefits, and Simple Steps to Apply
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has become one of the key initiatives of the Government of India to make affordable and quality medicines accessible to every citizen. Launched in 2008, the scheme is implemented by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. Through this initiative, generic medicines are made available at much lower prices compared to branded ones — ensuring that healthcare remains within everyone’s reach.
The main goal of PMBJP is to provide high-quality, affordable generic medicines to people across India, especially those from economically weaker sections. It also aims to spread awareness about generic drugs and remove misconceptions about their quality compared to branded alternatives. Apart from this, the scheme encourages entrepreneurship by allowing individuals to open Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs)
Affordable Medicines:
Generic medicines sold under PMBJP are 50%–90% cheaper than branded drugs, making essential healthcare accessible to all.
Quality Assurance:
All medicines are sourced from WHO-GMP certified suppliers, and each batch undergoes rigorous testing in NABL-accredited laboratories
Entrepreneur Incentives:
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General Incentive: Owners of Janaushadhi Kendras receive financial assistance of up to ₹5 lakh, based on 15% of monthly purchases.
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Special Incentive: Entrepreneurs from the Northeast, hilly or island regions, and those belonging to SC/ST, women, or differently-abled categories can get an additional ₹2 lakh incentive.
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Profit Margin: The operating agency earns a 20% margin (excluding taxes) on the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of the medicines sold.
Women’s Health Initiative:
In 2019, the government launched the Jan Aushadhi Suvidha sanitary napkin at just ₹1 per pad, available across more than 10,000 PMBJP stores. This step aimed to promote menstrual hygiene among women in rural and urban areas alike.
Anyone meeting the following criteria can apply:
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An individual applicant must have a D. Pharma or B. Pharma degree, or must employ a qualified pharmacist to manage the store.
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Organizations, NGOs, charitable trusts, or hospitals can also apply, provided they have qualified pharmacists to operate the center.
Visit the official website – janaushadhi.gov.in.
Click on ‘Apply for Kendra’ under the registration section.
Fill in personal details like name, contact number, and email, then click on ‘Register Now’.
After registration, log in using the user ID and password received via email.
Pay a non-refundable application fee of ₹5,000
Complete the application form and upload the required documents in PDF, JPEG, or PNG format (file size up to 200 KB).
Submit the form and wait for a confirmation email from the authorities.
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Proof of identity and address
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Pharmacy degree or pharmacist registration certificate
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Ownership or rental proof of shop premises
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Undertaking for store operation as per PMBJP norms
The PMBJP initiative is not only reducing the financial burden of healthcare but also empowering local entrepreneurs and healthcare workers. By encouraging the sale of quality-assured generic medicines at lower prices, it bridges the gap between affordability and accessibility — making India a model for inclusive healthcare.
For individuals and organizations interested in contributing to this mission, opening a Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra is both a socially impactful and financially rewarding opportunity.