Nutraceutical Products in Janaushadhi Kendras
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) Kendras have added nutraceuticals to their product basket.
About nutraceuticals
Nutraceuticals are any food-related substances that provide health and medical benefits. They also help in preventing and treating certain diseases. Nutraceutical products include protein powders, protein bars, malt-based food supplements, immunity bars, Vitamin supplements, etc.
About PMBJP
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) was launched in 2008 by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers. In 2015, it was re-launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The PMBJP is implemented by the Pharmaceuticals & Medical devices Bureau of India (PMBI), a society registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1960.
Objectives of PMBJP
- To make generic medicines available to all at affordable prices all over India.
- To ensure access to quality medicines for all, especially the poor and the deprived ones.
- To counter the misconception that the quality of medicines is synonymous with a high price.
- To make people aware of generic medicines through education and publicity.
- To create new jobs by engaging entrepreneurs in the opening of Janaushadhi Kendras.
About Janaushadhi Kendras
- Under PMBJP, Janaushadhi Kendras are opened. The Janaushadhi Kendras are dedicated outlets, which provide generic quality medicines.
- The product basket of Janaushadhi Kendras comprises 1,451 drugs and 240 surgical instruments.
- The prices of medicines sold at Janaushadhi Kendras are cheaper than branded ones.
- At present there are around 8,675 Janaushadhi Kendras all over India and there are three IT-enabled warehouses functional at Gurugram, Chennai, and Guwahati.
- The demand forecasting is done through the SAP-based inventory management system.
Government’s target
The government aims to increase the number of Janaushadhi Kendras to 10,500 by the end of March 2025. There is also a target to increase the total number of IT-enabled warehouses to six.
Month: Current Affairs - March, 2022
Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs