About PMBJP

• • With an objective of making quality generic medicines available at affordable prices to all, Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) was launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers in 2008. 
  • Under the scheme, dedicated outlets known as Janaushadhi Kendras are opened to provide generic medicines at affordable prices. 
  • The Scheme is implemented by the Pharma & Medical Bureau of India (PMBI), a society established under the Department of Pharmaceuticals.

• The Scheme is operated by government agencies as well as by private entrepreneurs.

Who can open a Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra?

• A PMBJK can be opened by:
  • Individual entrepreneur / Proprietor
  • Partnership
  • Charitable Institute/Hospital
  • NGO/ Trust/ Society
  • Government/ Government Nominated Agency.

Why in News?

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated 18 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras at various railway stations across the country.

What are generic drugs?

• When a company develops a new drug — often after years of research — it applies for a patent, which prohibits anyone else from making the drug for a fixed period (usually 20 years unless specified). 
• To recover the cost of research and development, companies usually price their brand- name drugs on the higher side. 
• Once the patent expires, other manufacturers duplicate and market their own versions of the drug — known as Generic drugs.
• A generic drug is created to be the same as an already existing brand-name drug in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use.
• Generic drugs are equally effective and inexpensive (50%-90% less) compared to their branded counterparts.

https://www.newsonair.gov.in/pm-modi-inaugurates-18-pradhan-mantri-bhartiya-jan-aushadhi-kendras-at-railway-stations-nationwide/