Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)

The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) was introduced in November 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, under the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers. The initiative responds to the substantial price difference between branded medicines and their unbranded generic counterparts, which offer the same therapeutic benefit. Its central aim is to make quality generic medicines available at reasonable prices across all segments of society, with particular attention to those who are economically disadvantaged.

Retail points called Janaushadhi Kendras form the backbone of the scheme, functioning as accessible outlets for low-cost medication. As of March 2026, more than 19,000 Kendras are in operation, stocking a catalogue of 2,100 medicines and 300 surgical items. The Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), registered under the Societies Registration Act, manages the implementation of the programme.

The scheme also works to raise public understanding of generic medicines, countering the assumption that a higher price signals better quality. In addition, it seeks to create livelihood opportunities by enabling entrepreneurs, pharmacists, trusts, and other entities to establish and run Kendras, thereby building a wider network of affordable healthcare access throughout the country.

To apply, start by visiting the official PMBI website at https://janaushadhi.gov.in. Once there, complete every mandatory field in the online form. When selecting your category—such as woman entrepreneur, SC, ST, or Divyang—be precise, as this choice is final and determines eligibility for special concessions.

Next, pay the non-refundable application fee of ₹5,000/- through the online gateway. If you belong to a recognised special category (women entrepreneurs, Divyang, SC, ST, ex-servicemen, or specific backward geographical regions), you are exempt from this fee, provided you submit proof of your category.

After your application is approved, you must sign a formal operating agreement with PMBI before opening the store. This document sets out all the terms and conditions governing the outlet.

Finally, secure a valid drug licence from the local authorities in the name of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra. You will also need to install PMBI’s proprietary billing software and submit the required bank cheques prior to the first dispatch of medicines and surgical items.

Applications are first submitted online, along with any applicable fee. The Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) then reviews each submission for completeness and checks that it meets the eligibility criteria, with particular attention paid to applicants from designated categories to ensure they receive the intended benefits.

Once an application is approved, the applicant enters a formal operating agreement with PMBI. Following this, the applicant must secure the necessary drug licences and set up the required operational systems. This staged approach ensures that all Janaushadhi Kendras are established and run in line with regulatory standards and the scheme's objectives.