The Ministry of Railways is preparing to establish Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs) at some of the country’s railway stations, with the commuters’ best interests in mind. The objective is to make affordable quality pharmaceuticals and consumables (Janaushadhi products) accessible to all.
A pilot initiative will establish Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras at fifty stations, including one in Odisha (Khordha Road).
According to a PIB report, PMBJKs would be considered a “desirable passenger amenity” under this plan, and the Railways would be required to provide prefabricated outlets in station circulating areas and concourses for operation by licensees.
Licensees will install and operate PMBJKs at locations designated by Railway Divisions. E-auctioning will provide stalls, as will the respective Railway Divisions via IREPS.
The NID Ahmedabad will design these booths. The report added that successful bidders for PMBJK outlets must obtain the essential permissions and licences to operate a drug store and comply with all statutory requirements for the storage of drugs.