Year end review 2024: Dept of Pharmaceuticals, Indian Min of Chemicals

The Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Indian Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, achieved significant milestones in 2024 through its flagship initiative, the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). By November 30, a total of 14,320 Jan Aushadhi Kendras were operational across the country, ensuring access to high-quality generic medicines at affordable prices. This aligns with the scheme’s objectives to lower out-of-pocket medical expenses for consumers and to popularise generic medications, dispelling misconceptions about their efficacy.

Another major accomplishment was the sale of over 64.55 crore Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Sanitary Napkins at Rs. 1 (~$0.012) per pad through Jan Aushadhi Kendras by November 30, of which over 13.82 crore pads were sold in 2024 alone, significantly enhancing menstrual health accessibility for women nationwide.

The year witnessed various impactful developments under PMBJP. On January 8, an MoU was signed between Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) and HLL Lifecare Ltd to enable the export of Indian generic medicines globally. To support financial accessibility, an MoU with SIDBI was signed on March 12 to provide project loans at competitive rates for entrepreneurs establishing new Kendras and credit facilities for existing ones.

Internationally, the opening of the first overseas Jan Aushadhi Kendra in Mauritius on July 17 marked a significant milestone in spreading affordable healthcare. This was followed by visits from delegations of Burkina Faso and Fiji, which showed keen interest in adopting the PMBJP model for their countries after understanding its success in providing affordable, quality medicines, the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilisers said in a press release.

Further expansion of Jan Aushadhi Kendras highlighted the program’s growth, with 50 new outlets inaugurated in district hospitals in Madhya Pradesh on September 17 under the Red Cross Society. On October 29, the Prime Minister inaugurated new Kendras at AIIMS New Delhi, AIIMS Bilaspur, and AIIMS Kalyani, underscoring the government’s commitment to enhancing affordable healthcare access.

By the year’s end, 69 railway stations hosted Jan Aushadhi Kendras, with 18 new outlets added, making quality medicines easily accessible for passengers. Jan Aushadhi medicines were brought closer to personnel of the Central Armed Police Forces, National Security Guard, and Assam Rifles through an MoU with the Ministry of Home Affairs signed on November 29.

On global platforms, PMBJP garnered significant attention. The scheme was showcased at the 19th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities and the 43rd India International Trade Fair in New Delhi, where the public and officials from over 150 nations were made aware of its impact and opportunities for replication. These achievements reflect the government’s unwavering dedication to making quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all, setting a robust foundation for further advancements in 2025.

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ALCHEMPro News Desk (HU)