PACS have been allowed by the Government to operate Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK) under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana of Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (GOI). Under this scheme, PACS can now apply online for opening PMBJKs.  PACS functioning as PMBJKs will be able to provide generic medicines at affordable prices to rural citizens, which are 50%-90% less than that of branded medicines in the open market.

So far, 4,629 PACS/Cooperative Societies from 34 States/UTs have submitted their online applications on the Department of Pharmaceuticals (GOI) portal for this initiative, out of which, 2,475 cooperative societies have received initial approval from Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), Department of Pharmaceuticals (GOI). Out of 2,475 initial approvals given to PACS/ Cooperative Societies, 617 drug licenses have been issued by the State Drug Controllers, which are ready to function as Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

    This was stated by the Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah in a written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.

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RK/ASH/AKS/RR/PR/AK/666

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