New Delhi - Minister of Health and Chemicals & Fertilisers, Mansukh Mandaviya, announced on Tuesday a new credit assistance scheme by SIDBI to support Jan Aushadi Kendra operators. This scheme aims to fortify and expand the network, offering loans without the need for collateral, he stated while inaugurating the initiative alongside the launch of a dedicated website.
Mandaviya emphasized that the SIDBI scheme will empower Jan Aushadi Kendra operators, enabling them to either kickstart their businesses or scale up operations. The loans, whether for working capital or term purposes, come with credit guarantees provided by the Credit Guarantee Fund Trust For Micro And Small Enterprises (CGTMSE).
The government has set an ambitious target of establishing 25,000 Janaushadhi Kendras nationwide by March 31, 2026. As of January 31, 2024, there were already 10,624 operational Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) across the country.
In the fiscal year 2022-23, the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) recorded sales worth Rs 1,235.95 crore, resulting in significant savings of approximately Rs 7,416 crore for citizens. These outlets offer a range of 1,965 generic drugs and 293 surgical items at affordable prices, contributing to accessible healthcare for all.
