The Jan Aushadhi Scheme, launched in 2008 and revamped as the Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in 2016, aims to provide affordable access to high-quality generic medicines for the masses. Under this initiative, Jan Aushadhi Kendras offer medicines at prices 50-90% lower than branded alternatives. The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) oversees its implementation. In 2021, with the establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation, the integration of Primary Agriculture Credit Societies (PACS) into the scheme has brought renewed momentum, particularly in rural regions.

1. Key Features of PMBJP

(i) Objective

• To reduce the financial burden of medicines on both rural and urban populations.
• To provide generic drugs at prices up to 50% of the average cost of branded medicines.

(ii) Implementation Framework

• PMBI employs parallel rate contracts, an SAP-based inventory system, and NABL-accredited labs to ensure quality assurance.
• The scheme provides over 1,800 medicines and 285 surgical devices.

(iii) Financial Model

• PACS receive a 20% margin on the MRP of each drug.
• An assistance scheme offers up to ₹5 lakhs at 15% of monthly purchases and ₹2 lakhs for IT and infrastructure setup.

(iv) Technology Integration

• The Jan Aushadhi Sugam Mobile App helps users locate stores, check medicine availability, and compare prices.

2. The Role of PACS in the Jan Aushadhi Scheme

(i) Why PACS?

• PACS, with their established presence in rural areas, form the backbone of India’s cooperative movement.
• Their involvement in activities such as credit distribution, seed supply, and fair-price shops makes them ideal for running Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

(ii) Process for PACS Participation

• Eligibility Criteria: Employing pharmacists with a B. Pharma/D. Pharma degree.
• Application Requirements: PAN details, Aadhaar, bank transactions, and a ₹5,000 fee.
• Operational Framework:
  • Obtain a drug license and upload it on the Jan Aushadhi portal.
  • Use POS software for inventory management.
  • Place orders for medicines via PMBI.

(iii) Current Status

• Uttar Pradesh is leading in the implementation of PACS, with over 5,200 PACS acting as common service centers.
• As of now, 464 PACS have received initial approval, with 36 Kendras operational, while others are in various stages of approval.

3. Advantages of the Cooperative Approach

(i) Rural Outreach

• PACS ensure last-mile connectivity, allowing remote areas to access affordable medicines.

(ii) Economic Empowerment

• Jan Aushadhi Kendras generate revenue for PACS, enhancing their financial viability.

(iii) Enhanced Pharmaceutical Care

• Pharmacists at the Kendras provide healthcare advice and pharmaceutical services to the community.

(iv) Awareness Generation

• PACS can educate rural populations about the benefits of using generic medicines.

4. Challenges and Solutions

(i) Supply Chain Gaps

• Issue: Stockouts and delays in restocking popular medicines.
• Solution: Streamline inventory management and ensure timely payments to vendors to avoid disruptions.

(ii) Delay in Incentives

• Issue: Late disbursement of financial incentives to PACS and pharma vendors.
• Solution: Develop a transparent, time-bound incentive disbursal mechanism.

(iii) Awareness and Patient Load

• Issue: Low public awareness of Jan Aushadhi Kendras.
• Solution: Launch nationwide campaigns to promote generic medicines and drive more patients to these Kendras.

5. Way Forward

• Improved Coordination: Foster regular collaboration between the Department of Cooperation and PMBI to address operational challenges.
• Infrastructure Support: Expand IT infrastructure and POS systems to ensure smooth operations.
• Training Programs: Offer skill development programs for PACS members to enhance their ability to manage the Kendras efficiently.

Conclusion
The integration of PACS into the PMBJP scheme under the “Sahkar se Samriddhi” paradigm holds immense potential to revolutionize access to affordable healthcare in India. By leveraging PACS’s strong rural presence and cooperative ethos, Jan Aushadhi Kendras can bridge the healthcare gap between urban and rural areas. Addressing initial implementation challenges will ensure the scheme’s long-term success, fulfilling its objective of providing high-quality, affordable medicines to all.