How To Apply For Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra?

In India, quality healthcare services are still out of reach of millions, mostly in rural areas, due to the high cost of branded medicines and surgical consumables, thus making them vulnerable to common diseases that can be easily treated. 

Therefore, to help reach affordable and quality healthcare services to people living in rural and semi-rural regions, the Indian government through its flagship program- Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana-  aims to provide affordable healthcare to the underprivileged.

What is Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana (PM-JAY) ?

The PM-JAY is a Government of India scheme to make healthcare accessible and affordable for every citizen by providing low-cost generic medicines and commonly used surgical consumables through its PM-JAY kendras or stores. 

Currently, over 6,500 PM-JAY kendras are functioning all over the country, providing over 8,000 generic medicines and surgical consumables at a lower rate.

Who Can Open a PM-JAY Store?

To achieve maximum coverage throughout the country, the Government allows individuals to open PM-JAY kendras and offer lucrative incentives. However, you can open a PM-JAY Kendra, only if:

• You are a registered doctor
• You are a registered medical practitioner
• You are a B.Pharma/ D.Pharma degree holder

You can also open a jan aushadhi kendra if you employ a B.Pharma/D.Pharma degree holder. There is also an opportunity to open a jan aushadhi kendra at the government hospital premise, however, the preference is given to an NGO or charitable trust in this case. 

Features and Benefits of PM Janaushadhi Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana (PMJAY) is a vital initiative by the Indian government aimed at providing affordable and quality generic medicines to citizens. Here are some of its prominent features and benefits:

1. Affordable Medicines: PMJAY ensures access to high-quality generic medicines at significantly lower prices compared to branded alternatives, reducing the financial burden on patients.
2. Wide Network: The scheme has an extensive network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) across the country, making medicines accessible even in remote areas.
3. Quality Assurance: Medicines available under the scheme undergo stringent quality checks, assuring patients of their safety and efficacy.
4. Extensive Range: PMJAY covers a wide range of essential medicines, catering to various health conditions and diseases.
5. Cost Savings: Patients can save a substantial amount on healthcare expenses by opting for generic medicines through PMJAY.
6. Increased Access: The scheme enhances access to essential medications, especially for underprivileged and marginalized communities.
7. Improved Health: Affordable medicines mean better adherence to treatment regimens, leading to improved health outcomes.
8. Reduced Healthcare Inequality: PMJAY plays a crucial role in reducing the disparities in healthcare access and quality across different segments of society.

How to Apply for a PM-JAY Store?

The requirements to apply for a Jan Aushadhi Kendra are:

1. You should have a self-owned or leased shop space of 120 sq ft and above, with all legal documents in place.
2. You will need to provide the name of the pharmacist registered with the state council.
3. If the applicant is from the SC/ST category or differently-abled, he/she needs to provide required certificates as proof.

If you fulfill the above-mentioned requirements for the jan aushadhi kendra, apply online today.

Alongside, you can also apply via the offline process, in which you are required to download the Application Form for opening a Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra. 

You will need to fill the application form and send it to the Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Undertaking of India (BPPI), the implementing agency of PM-JAY at the following address:

To, 
The CEO, 
Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Undertakings of India (BPPI), 
8th Floor Videocon Tower, Block E1, Jhandewalan Extension, New Delhi – 110055 
Tel – 011-49431800

BPPI is responsible for the procurement of generic medicines at lower prices, marketing, distribution, and monitoring of PM-JAY Kendras.

How to open Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra?

Opening a Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra (PMJAK) is a noble endeavor to provide affordable and quality generic medicines to your community. Here's how you can get started:

If you fulfill the eligibility requirements, you can apply online today. 

Offline Application:

• Download the PMJAK application form from the BPPI website.
• Fill in the required details in the form, including your personal and business information.
• Attach the necessary documents as specified in the application.
• Send the completed application form and documents to the address provided by BPPI.

Eligibility to apply for the Jan Aushadhi store

To apply for a Jan Aushadhi store (PM-JAY Kendra), there are specific eligibility criteria that you or your team must meet. You are eligible to open a PM-JAY Kendra if:

• You are a registered doctor or a registered medical practitioner.
• You hold a degree in pharmacy (B.Pharma or D.Pharma).
• Alternatively, if you are not a pharmacy degree holder, you can still apply if you employ a qualified pharmacy degree holder in your team.

These eligibility criteria ensure that the store is managed by individuals with the necessary medical or pharmaceutical knowledge and qualifications, guaranteeing the quality and reliability of medicines provided to the community.

Requirements for opening a Jan Aushadhi stores

Opening a Jan Aushadhi store is a commendable initiative to make quality medicines accessible to all. To qualify for this endeavor, you must meet specific requirements:

1. Shop Space: You should have a self-owned or leased shop space measuring 120 sq. ft. or more, with all legal documents in order. This space will serve as your Jan Aushadhi store.
2. Registered Pharmacist: You need to provide the name of a pharmacist registered with the state council who will oversee the operations and ensure adherence to pharmaceutical guidelines.
3. Category Proof: If you belong to the SC/ST category or are differently-abled, you must provide the necessary certificates as proof to avail any relevant benefits or considerations.

Jan Aushadhi Application Form Online

Applying for a Jan Aushadhi store online is a streamlined process to contribute to affordable healthcare access. Here's how to complete the application form:

Step 1: Begin by entering your personal and business details, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

Step 2: Upload clear and appropriately sized scanned copies of your photograph and signature.

Step 3: Attach your resume or CV, highlighting your qualifications and experience relevant to the Janaushadhi store.

Upon clicking the "Submit Application" button, you'll receive a Unique Application Number, confirming your registration for this important healthcare initiative. You can review and print your application details by accessing the "View/Print Application" option on the home page. This comprehensive online process ensures that your application is efficiently processed, contributing to the success of Jan Aushadhi Kendras in providing quality medicines to the community.

Objective & Vision of Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana:  

The primary objective of PMJAY is to make quality healthcare affordable and accessible to all by providing high-quality generic medicines at significantly reduced prices. It aims to achieve the following goals:

1. Affordable Medicines: 

To ensure that essential medicines are available at affordable prices, particularly to economically disadvantaged sections of society.

2. Reduction in Healthcare Expenses: 

To reduce the financial burden on patients and promote cost-effective treatment options.

3. Enhanced Access: 

To establish a wide network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) across the country, making quality medicines accessible even in remote areas.

The vision of PMJAY is to create a robust and sustainable ecosystem for generic medicines, where every Indian citizen, regardless of their financial status, can access high-quality and affordable medicines. By promoting the use of generic drugs and expanding the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, the program envisions a healthier and financially empowered nation. It strives to bridge the gap between healthcare needs and accessibility, ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to essential medications.

Important Terms And Conditions Before Opening PMJAK

Before opening a Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra (PMBJK), it's crucial to be aware of the important terms and conditions outlined by the authorities:

a) Agreement: 

Applicants must enter into an agreement with the authorities before commencing operations. All operations of the Jan Aushadhi Store must adhere to the terms and conditions set forth in this agreement.

b) Drug License: 

It is the applicant's responsibility to obtain a drug license in the name of "Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra" and any other required permissions for running a drug store. Compliance with all statutory requirements for drug storage is mandatory.

c) Use of Premises: 

The allocated premises should be used exclusively for operating the PMBJK and cannot be sublet or used for any other purpose.

d) Billing Software: 

All billing at PMBJKs should be done using the software provided by BPPI (Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Undertakings of India).

e) Sale of Allied Medical Products: 

PMBJK operators may sell allied medical products typically found in chemist shops. Certain exceptions may apply, subject to prior approval by BPPI.

f) Return of Expiry/Breakage: 

BPPI's distributor will accept returned expired or damaged medicines, up to 2% of the total purchase value by PMBJK.

g) Credit Period: 

A credit period of 30 days is provided from the date of receipt of medicines by Janaushadhi Store, but post dated cheques must be given by the Janaushadhi Store in advance against the goods supplied.

Profits and Incentives of Opening PMJAK

Opening a PM-JAY is a very lucrative business opportunity, as along with earning reasonable profits, you will also play a key role in transforming the healthcare services in India. 

Following are the monetary incentives granted to Janaushadhi Kendra operator:

• A PM-JAY retailer is provided 20% margin on MRP of each generic drug and 10% margin if you are a distributor
• If your PM-JAY Kendra is connected to the BPPI systems, you can get up to a maximum of Rs 2.5 lakh of incentives annually. This is calculated 15% on the monthly sales of your store with an upper ceiling of Rs 10,000. For north-eastern states, Naxal-affected and tribal regions, the limit goes up to Rs 15,000. 
• PM-JAY Kendra operator falling under the category of SC/ST candidate and differently-abled will be given medicines worth Rs 50,000 in advance
• The store operator will be provided with a remuneration of Rs 1 lakh on purchase of furniture and fittings and Rs 50,000 on purchase of computer, printer and internet. 
• 2% of total sales or actual loss will be provided against expired medicines. Also, the expired medicines will be considered as a loss for BPPI, not the retailer or distributor.
• A 30-days free-credit period will be provided against a post-dated cheque.

Therefore, as a retailer, on monthly sales of Rs 1 lakh, you can earn a commission of Rs 20,000 and Rs 10,000 as an incentive. Plus, the establishment cost is also reimbursed by BPPI to a great extent. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana (PMJAY) stands as a beacon of hope in the healthcare landscape of India. By making quality generic medicines accessible and affordable to all, this scheme embodies the principles of inclusivity, affordability, and health equity. PMJAY not only alleviates the financial burden on patients but also empowers individuals with the means to lead healthier lives.

With a network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) spanning the nation, PMJAY is not just a scheme; it's a lifeline that bridges the gap between healthcare needs and accessibility. The vision of PMJAY is one where healthcare is a fundamental right, irrespective of one's financial status. As we move forward, PMJAY continues to be a shining example of how dedicated initiatives can transform healthcare and create a brighter, healthier future for all citizens.