2,000 Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) will be selected by the government to establish Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras, as announced by the Union Ministry of Cooperation. This decision was made during a meeting between Cooperation Minister Amit Shah and Chemicals and Fertilisers Minister Mansukh Mandaviya.

The ministry has stated that all PM Jan Aushadhi Kendras will be operational before the end of the year. The plan is to open 1,000 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras by August and another 1,000 by December. This initiative aims to provide affordable medicines, particularly to those residing in rural areas, while also generating income for PACS and creating job opportunities.

The meeting included the presence of the Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperation, the Secretary of the Department of Chemicals and Fertilisers, and other senior officials from both ministries.

To date, more than 9,400 Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been established throughout the country. These Kendras offer over 1,800 types of medicines and 285 other medical devices. The statement highlights that medications at these centers are priced 50% to 90% lower than branded alternatives.

Furthermore, the government provides incentives for Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendras. The incentive amount is Rs. 5 lakh, which is 15% of the monthly purchase or a maximum of Rs. 15,000 per month. Additionally, special categories and areas are eligible for a one-time additional incentive of Rs. 2 lakh as reimbursement for IT and infrastructure expenditures.