The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) aims to make quality generic medicines accessible and affordable to all citizens. The program establishes outlets known as Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs). This article will discuss the guidelines for opening a new PMBJK, focusing on eligibility, incentives, operations, and application procedures.
Background: Providing Affordable Healthcare
Branded generic medicines often come with high costs. The PMBJP is launched to counteract this issue by promoting quality generic medicines through designated PMBJKs, which act as one-stop shops for various healthcare products and services. The goal is to ensure that all districts and key areas across India have access to these affordable medicines.
PMBI: The Implementation Agency
The Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) is the central agency responsible for implementing the PMBJP. PMBI manages the procurement of medicines and monitors the operations of PMBJKs.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Open a PMBJK?
To open a PMBJK, applicants must meet specific requirements:
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Educational Qualification: Individuals must have a D. Pharma or B. Pharma degree or employ a person with such a degree, providing proof at the time of application and at final approval.
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Organization Type: Reputable NGOs and charitable organizations are preferred but individuals are also eligible for PMBJK openings, particularly in government medical settings.
Financial Incentives: Supporting Entrepreneurs
The scheme provides several financial incentives for opening a PMBJK:
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Operating Margin: A 20% margin on the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of each drug.
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Special Incentive: A one-time special grant of Rs. 2 Lakhs is provided to women, divyang, SC and ST entrepreneurs, as well as entrepreneurs from aspirational districts or areas in the Himalayan and North-Eastern states, as follows: Rs. 1.50 Lakh for furniture/fixtures and Rs 0.5 Lakh for Computer/Internet etc. .
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Normal Incentive: Other categories of entrepreneurs receive incentives of up to Rs. 5 lakhs, linked to monthly purchase volume and up to a specified limit. It also covers PMBJKs opened in government premises to whom one time grant of Rs 2.5 lakh was disbursed and further, any PMBJK opened in government premises will also be eligible to receive regular incentives.
Operational Terms and Conditions: Ensuring Ethical Practices
PMBJKs must adhere to the following operating conditions:
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An agreement with PMBI must be made before starting operations.
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All necessary drug licenses and regulatory requirements must be fulfilled.
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Premises must be used solely for PMBJK operations.
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Billing must be done using PMBI-provided software.
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Only products listed by PMBI can be sold, and the facility can also sell allied medical products.
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Supply must be made against advance payment from the operator.
Distance Policy: Ensuring Accessibility
To ensure coverage and avoid over-concentration, a distance policy is applied:
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In metropolitan cities and districts with a population equal to or more than 10 lakhs, PMBJKs must maintain a distance of 1.00 km from each other.
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In districts with a population less than 10 lakhs, PMBJKs must be at least 1.50 km from each other.
Application Process: A Transparent Approach
To open a PMBJK, one must follow certain steps:
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Submit a completed application form along with a non-refundable fee of Rs. 5000 to PMBI’s virtual account. This fee is waived for some categories as per the provided guidelines.
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Provide all necessary documents, including proof of degree, registration, and adherence to the specified guidelines.
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Adhere to the prescribed guidelines while choosing a location and submit required documentation.
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Comply with the distance policy.
Conclusion:
The PMBJK scheme is vital to India’s healthcare system, ensuring that high quality medicines are accessible and affordable. By adhering to the provided guidelines, individuals, NGOs and charitable organisations can contribute to this objective by operating a PMBJK that will benefit a wider community.