Expansion of PMBJK Through PACS
The Ministry of Cooperation reported significant growth in the operation of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) as Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). Sales through these kendras have shown substantial increase over the last three financial years, reaching ₹9.94 crore at MRP value in FY 2025-26, up from ₹6.75 crore in FY 2024-25 and ₹1.44 crore in FY 2023-24.
The expansion of PACS operating as PMBJKs has been remarkable, with 454 kendras opened in FY 2023-24, 276 in FY 2024-25, and 106 in FY 2025-26, resulting in a cumulative total of 836 Jan Aushadhi Kendras operated by PACS.
To prioritize PACS-based Janaushadhi Kendras in aspirational districts, remote rural areas, North-Eastern States, Himalayan Regions, and island territories, a One-Time Special Grant of ₹2.00 lakh is provided as reimbursement for IT infrastructure (₹0.50 lakh for computers, printers, internet) and furniture/fixtures (₹1.50 lakh). This grant also applies to entrepreneurs who are women, SC/ST, Divyangjan, or ex-servicemen.
Janaushadhi Kendras owners receive normal incentives of 20% of monthly purchases up to a ceiling of ₹20,000 per month, tied to a stocking mandate of 200 high-demand medicines. PACS operating Jan Aushadhi Kendras are eligible for the same benefits as other kendras under PMBJP, including a 30% trade margin on the Maximum Retail Price and incentives on medicine purchases and fulfillment of stocking requirements as per extant guidelines. Such PACS can earn an average annual income of more than ₹35,000.
Special facilities are provided for women through Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Sanitary Napkins available at ₹1 per pad for menstrual hygiene through these kendras.
This information was provided by Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation, Shri Amit Shah, in a written reply in Rajya Sabha on August 5, 2026.