PMBJP is world's biggest retail pharma chain: Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday said with over 6,200 stores in 700 districts across India, the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is probably the biggest retail pharma chain in the world.

On the Jan Aushadhi Diwas, Shah said the day marks the unwavering commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards "a healthy India".

"The successful implementation of PMBJP has set an unprecedented example in the world towards affordable medicines for the poor," Shah tweeted as he congratulated Modi for it.

Shah said keeping in mind the poor and to help reduce the burden of high medication cost, Modi government has been providing quality medicines at affordable prices to the masses under PMBJP.

"Medicines under this scheme are 50 per cent to 90 per cent cheaper as compared to the average market price."

He said the PMBJP has led to a saving of approx Rs 2,200 crore for the common citizens.

"With more than 6,200 stores in 700 districts across India, makes it probably the biggest retail pharma chain in the world. Apart from affordable medicines, the scheme has also thrust self-employment," Shah added.

Jan Aushadhi Diwas is celebrated on March 7 to provide further impetus and create awareness about the use of generic medicines.

The scheme was launched with an objective of making high-quality medicines available to all at an affordable price, especially to the poor and underprivileged, through exclusive outlets of Jan Aushadhi Medical Stores.

It is an initiative by the Department of Pharmaceuticals. IANS