In order to promote generic medicines at affordable price, the Centre government has dedicated 108 new Jan Aushadhi Kendras to J&K, officials said.
With this, the total number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the UT has increased to 230.
According to the officials, out of 108 newly inaugurated Jan Aushadhi Kendras, 57 were established in the Kashmir region and 51 in Jammu region.
Spokesperson Directorate of Health Services Kashmir, Dr Mir Mushtaq told that Jan Aushadhi stores play a very important role in providing quality medicines at affordable prices.
“Even PM is very keen to improve and open stores everywhere. Generic medicines at affordable prices have helped people a lot. There are medicines of other brands which people cannot afford. But the government has started this initiative to help poor people,” he said.
He said that whenever they feel there is a need to open more stores in Kashmir, the department will definitely take further steps.
In Kashmir region, 8 were setup in Srinagar district, six in Pulwama, six in Ganderbal district, five in Bandipora, 10 in Kupwara district, 6 in Anantnag, 1 in Shopian, 4 in Kulgam, 5 in Baramulla and 6 in district Budgam.
In Jammu region, 11 centers were set up in district Jammu, 2 in district Doda, 9 in district Poonch, 5 in Rajouri district, 3 in Ramban district, 6 in Reasi District, 10 in Samba district, 4 in Kathua district and 2 in Udhampur district.
These Kendras are established within the Government health care institutions in Tertiary care hospitals in Jammu & Srinagar, District Hospitals, Sub-District Hospitals and Primary Healthcare centres which also covered far flung areas.
In J&K, Jan Aushadhi scheme was launched in the year 2010 and the first store was opened at Red Cross Building Exchange Road Srinagar on May 9 in 2011.
Prices of the Jan Aushadhi medicines are 50%-90% less than that of branded medicines prices in the open market.
Medicines are procured only from World Health Organization – Good Manufacturing Practices (WHO-GMP) certified suppliers for ensuring the quality of the products. Each batch of drug is tested at laboratories accredited by ‘National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories’ (NABL) for ensuring best quality.
The scheme is being operated by government agencies as well as by private entrepreneurs, women entrepreneurs, NGOs, Societies, Charitable trusts and others. One-time incentive of Rs 2 lakh is provided for furniture, fixtures, computer & printers to the PMBJP Kendras opened in the North-Eastern States, Himalayan areas, Island territories and backward areas mentioned as an aspirational district by NITI Aayog
