Introduction
Indian Railways, in its continuous efforts to enhance passenger amenities, has introduced the concept of
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) at railway stations. This initiative aims to provide affordable and high-quality generic medicines to millions of passengers and visitors at railway stations across India. The Ministry of Railways has devised a policy framework to establish these medical outlets in the circulating areas and concourses of railway stations, ensuring accessibility and affordability for all.
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Why PMBJKs are Required at Railway Stations?
Railway stations witness a massive footfall of millions of passengers daily, making them a crucial hub for public services. The need for affordable and accessible medicines is paramount, especially for travellers who might require immediate medical assistance. The introduction of PMBJKs at railway stations addresses this need by:
- Ensuring easy availability of essential medicines at a cost-effective price.
- Supporting the Government of India’s mission to provide affordable healthcare under the Janaushadhi Scheme.
- Offering an alternative to expensive branded medicines, making healthcare more accessible to lower-income groups.
- Encouraging the use of generic medicines, which are equally effective as branded drugs but at a fraction of the cost.
What is Generic Medicines?
Generic medicines are bioequivalent to branded drugs but are priced lower, making them an economical alternative. The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) oversees the distribution of these medicines, ensuring their quality and efficacy. Some of the key advantages of generic medicines include:
- Cost-effectiveness – Priced much lower than branded alternatives.
- Quality Assurance – Approved by regulatory bodies and tested for efficacy.
- Wider Reach – Available at multiple locations, including railway stations.
- Encouraging Self-reliance – Reduces dependence on expensive pharmaceutical products.
How generic is different from branded
Generic Medicine: A drug that contains the same active ingredient as a branded medicine but is sold under a different (non-branded) name.
Branded Medicine: A drug developed and marketed under a patented name by a pharmaceutical company
List of station
List of railway stations where Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) are as follows:
| Janjgir-Naila | Chhattisgarh |
| Madan Mahal | Madhya Pradesh |
| Lokmanya Tilak Terminus | Maharashtra |
| Tiruchchirappalli Jn | Tamil Nadu |
| Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Jn. | Uttar Pradesh |
| Virangana Lakshmibai | Uttar Pradesh |
| Gorakhpur Jn | Uttar Pradesh |
| Yog Nagari Rishikesh | Uttarakhand |
Product MRP List
Some of price of generic medicines are as follows:
| Drug Code | Generic Name | Unit Size | MRP (in Rs.) |
|---|
| 1 | Aceclofenac 100mg and Paracetamol 325mg Tablets | 10's | 10.00 |
| 2 | Aceclofenac Tablets IP 100 mg | 10's | 8.00 |
| 3 | Pregabalin Capsules IP 75 mg | 10's | 22.00 |
| 5 | Aspirin Gastro-resistant Tablets IP 150 mg | 14's | 5.00 |
| 6 | Chlorzoxazone 500mg, Diclofenac 50mg, and Paracetamol 325mg Tablets | 10's | 25.00 |
| 7 | Diclofenac Gel IP 1.16% w/w (Diclofenac Diethylamine) | 15 g | 12.00 |
| 8 | Serratiopeptidase 10mg and Diclofenac Sodium 50mg Tablets | 10's | 15.40 |
| 9 | Diclofenac Sodium Prolonged Release Tablets IP 100 mg | 10's | 12.10 |
| 10 | Diclofenac Sodium Injection IP 25mg per ml | 3 ml | 4.00 |
| 11 | Diclofenac Gastro-Resistant Tablets IP 50 mg | 10's | 5.50 |
Steps to search product and price list
To check the price of medicines under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), follow these steps
- Navigate to the PMBJP's official website at janaushadhi.gov.in.
- On the homepage, locate and click on the "Product Portfolio" section.Jan Aushadhi
- Within the Product Portfolio, select the "Product & MRP List" option.
- Use the search functionality or browse through the list to find the medicine you're interested in.
Conclusion
The establishment of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) at railway stations is a groundbreaking initiative that aligns with the Government of India's vision of affordable healthcare for all. By making high-quality generic medicines available at railway stations, the initiative not only benefits passengers but also creates employment opportunities and strengthens the healthcare infrastructure. This step by Indian Railways ensures that affordability, accessibility, and quality healthcare go hand in hand, making train journeys safer and healthier for everyone.
