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Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in a video conference today to interact with the beneficiaries of the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra. Prime Minister Modi's conversation with these individuals highlights his dedication to empowering citizens and promoting holistic development throughout India.

Ruchi Kumari, operator of Jan Aushadi Kendra at AIIMS, Deoghar, had the privilege of sharing her experiences with the Prime Minister. Ruchi hails from the Ramgarh district in Jharkhand and currently oversees the 10,000^th PM Bhartiya Jan Aushadi Kendra. The conversation initiated by Prime Minister Modi began on a lighter note, inquiring about her name and delved into her motivations behind joining this pivotal role. Ruchi recounted her journey from being an assistant pharmacist, where she witnessed the spiralling costs of medication, creating barriers for underprivileged individuals in accessing essential medicines.

The struggle faced by people in affording essential medicines became the impetus behind her decision to open and manage a Jan Aushadi Kendra. Ruchi also explained how she actively utilizes social media to raise awareness about the advantages of Jan Aushadi Kendras, that offer affordable and high-quality medicines making healthcare accessible to all. Additionally, the Digital India initiative enlightened her about the significance of employing digital tools for maximizing developmental efforts.

Prime Minister Modi also engaged in a conversation with Mr. Sona Mishra, a beneficiary of the Jan Aushadi Kendra in Jharkhand. Mr. Mishra has been availing himself of the benefits of this Kendra since its inception and conveyed his contentment regarding the initiative.

When asked about the assistance received from the Jan Aushadi Kendra, Mr. Mishra revealed a staggering reduction in his monthly medical expenses. Mr. Mishra mentioned that previously, his monthly medical expenses used to amount to around 12,000 to 13,000 rupees. However, upon utilizing the services of the Jan Aushadi Kendra for his medications, his expenditure drastically plummeted to a mere 3,000 to 3,500 rupees per month. This monumental decrease, amounting to savings of approximately 10,000 rupees per month, underscored the significant impact of the Jan Aushadi Kendra in Mr. Mishra's life.

Mr. Mishra conveyed deep gratitude for the noticeable change this initiative has brought, significantly enhancing the accessibility and affordability of healthcare for numerous individuals, including himself, and the profound impact it has had on his life.

Ruchi Kumari's story showcased the impact of initiatives like Jan Aushadi Kendra, ensuring affordable healthcare. Mr. Sona Mishra's gratitude echoes the profound change in individual lives, reflecting the broader goal of an inclusive healthcare system for all in India. Their stories exemplify the transformative power of government initiatives in enhancing lives nationwide.

Nimish Rustagi/ Himanshu Pathak/ Madiha Iqbal

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