2,744 PACS across the country have received initial approval from the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), Department of Pharmaceuticals and the Government of India to establish Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK). Among the 2,744 PACS that received initial approval, 785 have been issued drug licenses by the State Drug Controllers and 716 PACS have been allotted Store Codes by PMBI, which are ready to function as PMBJK.

PACS functioning as PMBJKs provide around 2,047 quality generic medicines and around 300 surgical items. The product basket covers all major therapeutic groups such as Cardiovascular, Anti-cancers, Anti-diabetics, Anti-infectives, Anti-allergic, Gastro-intestinal medicines, Nutraceuticals, etc. These Kendras provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices to rural citizens which are 50% to 90% less priced than that of branded alternatives, making healthcare more affordable for rural population. The initiative aims to improve accessibility to essential medicines, reduce healthcare costs, and improve the overall well-being of rural communities.

PACS operating PMBJKs have been able to diversify their income streams, enhancing their financial sustainability. As per information provided by PMBI, so far, medicines worth Rs. 4.9 Crore have been purchased by PACS operating PMBJKs from PMBI. The initiative has strengthened financial viability of PACS, allowing them to reinvest in other cooperative activities, provide better services to their members, and expand their role in rural economic development.

In order to increase the number of PACS operating PMBJKs, particularly in underserved/ rural and remote areas, the implementation of the initiative is regularly reviewed through meetings with States/UTs and PMBI to ensure effective progress. Efforts include simplifying the application process, fast-tracking approvals, and conducting training programs for PACS staff on pharmacy operations. Additionally, State Governments are encouraged to identify and support eligible PACS in launching PMBJKs to further strengthen rural healthcare access.

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

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