Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently inaugurated a Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra at the Netaji Metro station (Kudghat) in Kolkata. The inauguration, conducted via video conferencing, was part of a larger initiative to establish 18 such centres at Indian Railways stations across the country, marking a key step in the government’s vision of Swastha Bharat, Vikshit Bharat (Healthy India, Developed India).
The newly opened Kendra in Kolkata is the second of its kind in West Bengal, following the inauguration of a similar centre in Malda earlier this month. These centres are designed to offer generic medicines at prices that are significantly lower than branded alternatives, making essential healthcare accessible to a wider population. With a discount range of 50-90% on generic medications, the initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on citizens, particularly in urban areas like Kolkata, where the cost of healthcare can often be prohibitive for many. In his address, Modi emphasised the importance of the Jan Aushadhi Kendras, stating that these centres would help people access high-quality medicines at a fraction of the market price, ultimately saving them money. This is in line with the government’s broader effort to promote a healthier and more equitable society, where healthcare is not a luxury but a basic right.
General Manager of Kolkata Metro Railway, highlighted that these Kendras would not only provide savings but also help popularise the concept of affordable healthcare. The Kendra at Netaji Metro station will cater to both regular commuters and local residents, creating a convenient point of access for those in need of essential medications. The centre’s affordability is expected to resonate particularly with lower-income groups, who often struggle with the high costs of branded medicines. From a sustainability perspective, this initiative also aligns with the broader goal of promoting a self-reliant healthcare system. By providing cost-effective alternatives to expensive branded drugs, the Jan Aushadhi programme encourages people to make healthier choices without straining their finances. Moreover, the programme supports a more sustainable healthcare ecosystem by reducing reliance on high-cost pharmaceutical chains, which often result in supply chain inefficiencies and higher carbon footprints.
While the launch of the Kendra is a positive step, there are also calls from the public for further expansion of these centres across the state. Many believe that access to affordable medicines should be a fundamental part of healthcare infrastructure, and the Jan Aushadhi programme is a welcome move in that direction. The widespread adoption of such centres could lead to long-term benefits, not only in terms of public health but also in enhancing the overall well-being of the population.
