Jan Aushadhi: How to Buy Generic Medicines at 50–80% Less

Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) stores sell government-approved generic medicines at 50-90% less than branded equivalents. There are over 17,990 stores across India, stocking 2,100+ medicines and 315 surgical items. The medicines contain the same active ingredient, same dose, and same dosage form as branded versions, and are sourced from WHO-GMP certified manufacturers with each batch tested at NABL-accredited laboratories. You do not need a special card — walk in with a valid prescription and buy. Find your nearest store at janaushadhi.gov.in or through the Jan Aushadhi Sugam app. Here is everything you need to know about how the scheme works and how much you can save.

What Is Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP)?

The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) is a scheme by the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India. It was originally launched in 2008 and revamped in 2016 with a clear mission: make quality generic medicines available to all Indians at affordable prices.

The scheme is implemented by the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), which sources medicines from WHO-GMP certified manufacturers and distributes them through a network of dedicated retail outlets called Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

What Are Generic Medicines?

Every medicine has two names: a brand name (chosen by the company) and a generic name (the actual chemical or salt name). For example, "Crocin" is a brand name. The generic name is "Paracetamol."

A generic medicine contains the same active ingredient, in the same dosage and form, as the branded version. The difference is in the name and the price. Generic medicines cost less because the manufacturer does not spend heavily on marketing and brand promotion.

Are Generic Medicines Safe?

Yes. Generic medicines sold through Jan Aushadhi Kendras must pass the same quality tests as branded medicines. They are sourced from manufacturers who hold WHO-GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) certification. Each batch is tested at NABL-accredited laboratories before being supplied to the stores.

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and state drug regulators enforce the same quality standards for generic and branded medicines under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

How Much Can You Actually Save?

Jan Aushadhi medicines are priced 50% to 90% lower than their branded equivalents. Here are some real-world examples to give you a sense of the savings:

• Atorvastatin 10mg (cholesterol) — branded: Rs 130 for 10 tablets; Jan Aushadhi: approximately Rs 12–18
• Metformin 500mg (diabetes) — branded: Rs 45 for 10 tablets; Jan Aushadhi: approximately Rs 6–10
• Amlodipine 5mg (blood pressure) — branded: Rs 55 for 10 tablets; Jan Aushadhi: approximately Rs 5–8
• Pantoprazole 40mg (acidity) — branded: Rs 120 for 10 tablets; Jan Aushadhi: approximately Rs 12–20

For a family managing multiple chronic conditions, the cumulative savings can be thousands of rupees every month. By June 2025, PMBJP estimates that the scheme has generated cumulative savings of approximately Rs 38,000 crore for citizens.

How to Find a Jan Aushadhi Store Near You

There are three easy ways to locate your nearest Jan Aushadhi Kendra:

1. Jan Aushadhi Sugam App — download the official app developed by PMBI from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store. The app shows store locations, medicine availability, and prices.
2. Official website — visit janaushadhi.gov.in and use the store locator feature.
3. Ask at your local government hospital — many district hospitals and primary health centres have a Jan Aushadhi Kendra on the premises or nearby.

What If Your Doctor Writes a Brand Name?

Doctors in India often write prescriptions using brand names. However, you have the right to ask for the generic equivalent. Here is what you can do:

• Ask your doctor to write the prescription using the generic (salt) name instead of the brand name.
• If the doctor has written a brand name, take the prescription to a Jan Aushadhi Kendra and ask the pharmacist if the same salt and strength is available as a Jan Aushadhi medicine.
• The Jan Aushadhi Sugam app lets you search by generic name to check availability and pricing before you visit the store.

Categories of Medicines Available

Jan Aushadhi Kendras stock medicines across all major therapeutic categories, including:

• Cardiovascular (heart and blood pressure)
• Anti-diabetic (diabetes management)
• Anti-infective (antibiotics, antifungals)
• Oncology (cancer drugs)
• Gastrointestinal (stomach and digestion)
• Anti-allergic
• Pain management and anti-inflammatory
• Surgical consumables, sanitary pads, and nutritional supplements

The Bottom Line

If you or your family members take medicines regularly, switching to Jan Aushadhi generics can save you lakhs of rupees over the years — without any compromise on quality. With over 17,990 stores across India and a mobile app to find them, affordable medicines are closer than you think.