As many as 803 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) are currently functional across Odisha as of December 31, 2025, the Centre informed the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday. Of these, 21 Kendras have been established within government premises to enhance public access to affordable generic medicines.The information was shared by Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Anupriya Patel, in a written reply in the Upper House of Parliament.
Responding to queries regarding the deployment of Jan Aushadhi Vans in tribal and flood-prone areas of Odisha, the Minister stated that no proposal for such mobile medicine units has been received so far. These vans are generally envisioned to improve last-mile delivery of medicines in remote and geographically challenging regions.
The Centre also clarified the regulatory framework governing the sale of medicines in India. Under Rule 64 of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, retail drug licences are issued only for fixed premises that comply with prescribed infrastructure norms. These include adequate space and proper storage facilities, including cold chain arrangements for temperature-sensitive and life-saving drugs.
Existing regulations do not permit retail drug licences to be granted to mobile units. As a result, medicines under the Jan Aushadhi scheme are currently distributed exclusively through authorised, stationary outlets operating from approved premises.
The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana aims to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices through a nationwide network of dedicated stores. The presence of 803 Kendras in Odisha reflects the continued expansion of the scheme in the state and the government’s focus on improving access to low-cost medicines.
