About PMBJP

• Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a campaign launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals to provide quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses. 
• PMBJP stores have been set up to provide generic drugs, which are available at lesser prices but are equivalent in quality and efficacy as expensive branded drugs. 
• Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) is the implementing agency of PMBJP.

Objectives of PMBJP

• Making quality medicines available at affordable prices for all, particularly the poor and disadvantaged, through exclusive outlets “Jan Aushadhi Kendras”, to reduce out of pocket expenses in healthcare.
• Create awareness among the public regarding generic medicines.
• Create demand for generic medicines through medical practitioners.
• Create awareness through education and awareness programs that high price need not be synonymous with high quality.

Who can open a Jan Aushadhi Kendras?

• State Governments or any organization / reputed NGOs / Trusts / Private hospitals / Charitable institutions / Doctors / Unemployed pharmacists/ individual entrepreneurs are eligible to apply for new Jan Aushadhi stores. 
• The applicants shall have to employ one B Pharma / D Pharma degree holder as Pharmacist in their proposed store.
• They can be set up at any suitable place within Government hospital or Private hospital premises or anywhere outside the premises.

Why in News?

• The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India has conducted an awareness programme for the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana.