762 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras functional

New Delhi: To promote quality generic drugs at affordable prices across the country, 762 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras are functioning in over 26 states/union territories, Parliament was informed.

"In order to encourage the use of generic medicines, a country wide campaign for ensuring availability of quality generic medicines at affordable prices to all, in the name of Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) has been started," Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilisers Mansukh L Mandaviya said in reply to a question in the Lok Sabha.

As of date, there are 762 'Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJK)' under PMBJP functioning in over 26 states/UTs, he added.

For opening PMBJKs in government hospitals and medical college premises, one time financial assistance of up to Rs 2.50 lakh is provided, Mandaviya said.

"For PMBJKs run by private entrepreneurs / pharmacists/ NGOs/ NGOs and charitable organisations that are linked with BPPI (Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India) headquarters through internet (using BPPI provided software) will get incentive up to Rs 2.5 lakh," he added.