Jan Aushadhi Encyclopedia Part 12: Master FAQ & Helpdesk

This final part of our encyclopedia answers the most frequent questions asked by patients, doctors, and entrepreneurs about the PMBJP scheme.

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🙋‍♂️ For Patients & Consumers

Q1: Are Jan Aushadhi medicines really as good as branded ones?

Yes. They contain the exact same Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API). They are manufactured in WHO-GMP certified plants and tested at NABL-accredited labs. They go through the same rigorous scientific standards as any top brand in India.

Q2: Do I need a doctor’s prescription to buy medicines here?

Yes. All “Schedule H” and “Schedule H1” medicines (which cover most chronic and acute treatments) require a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner. Only OTC (Over-the-Counter) items like band-aids or wellness products can be bought without one.

Q3: Why doesn’t my doctor prescribe Jan Aushadhi medicines?

Many doctors are accustomed to writing brand names due to decades of pharmaceutical marketing. However, you can ask your doctor to write the Generic Name (the chemical name) of the medicine. You can then take that prescription to a Jan Aushadhi Kendra.

Q4: How do I find a Jan Aushadhi Kendra near me?

1. Download the Jan Aushadhi Sugam App.
2. Visit the official website janaushadhi.gov.in.
3. Look for the “PMBJP” signboards at major railway stations or government hospitals.

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💼 For Aspiring Store Owners

Q5: Can a non-pharmacist open a Jan Aushadhi store?

Yes, but with a condition. You must hire a registered pharmacist (B.Pharma/D.Pharma) and provide their details during the application. The store cannot function without a pharmacist on site.

Q6: How much investment is required?

• Application Fee: ₹5,000 (Exempt for many categories).
• Setup Cost: ₹1.5 - ₹2 Lakhs for furniture, fridge, and IT.
• Stock: Initial inventory of ₹1 - ₹2 Lakhs.
• Total: Roughly ₹3.5 - ₹5 Lakhs (Significantly reduced if you qualify for the ₹2 Lakh special grant).

Q7: How long does it take for the ₹5 Lakh incentive to reach me?

It is not a lumpsum payment. You receive it as a 15% rebate on your monthly purchases from PMBI (capped at ₹15,000 per month). It effectively reduces your stock purchase cost every month until you have received ₹5 Lakhs in total.

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📞 Important Contact Information

• Toll-Free Helpline: 1800-180-8080 (For general queries).
• Pharmacovigilance (ADR Reporting): 1800-180-3024.
• Official Portal: www.janaushadhi.gov.in.
• Address: Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), E-1, 8th Floor, Videocon Tower, Jhandewalan Extn., New Delhi - 110055.

Closing Note

The Jan Aushadhi Encyclopedia is our contribution to a healthier, more informed India. We hope this 12-part series empowers you to take control of your healthcare costs without compromising on your well-being.

Affordable medicine is no longer a dream; it’s a reality at your nearest Jan Aushadhi Kendra.

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