NEW DELHI. The government has set a target to increase the number of Jan Aushadhi Kendras across the country to 25,000 by March 2027, with the objective of further expanding access to quality generic medicines at affordable prices. Under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana, a total of 17,610 Kendras were operational nationwide as of November 30, 2025, marking a substantial rise from just 80 stores in 2014. The steady expansion highlights growing public awareness, increasing confidence in generic medicines, and improved commercial viability of the outlets, the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers informed Parliament.
The government noted that rising demand for affordable medicines has led to strong growth under the scheme, with the number of Kendras increasing by 37 per cent in the last financial year and sales, in terms of maximum retail price value, rising by 38 per cent. Jan Aushadhi Kendras are opened through online applications from individual entrepreneurs, NGOs, societies, trusts, firms and private companies, enabling wide participation across states. The scheme aims to reduce out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure, ensure access to high-quality medicines, and promote entrepreneurship. This information was shared by Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Anupriya Patel in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
