Every year, March 7th is observed as ‘Jan Aushadhi Diwas’ to raise awareness about the significance of generic medicines and to promote their use across India. This event is part of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), which aims to ensure that quality medicines are available at affordable prices to the public.
To celebrate this occasion, a week-long series of events is organized nationwide from March 1st to March 7th, aimed at informing the public about the benefits and availability of low-cost generic medicines. This year, the festivities began on March 1st, with a key event held in the National Capital Region (NCR) to emphasize the scheme’s impact.
What is Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)?
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) was initiated in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers, working together with Central Pharma Public Sector Undertakings. The goal of this initiative is to:
- Make high-quality medicines affordable and accessible to all.
- Provide medicines through dedicated outlets known as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).
- Reduce dependency on branded medicines, which are significantly costlier than their generic counterparts.
- Enhance public awareness regarding the benefits of generic drugs.
