Meghalaya observes 'Jan Aushadhi Diwas' at NEIGRIHMS

A REPORTER

SHILLONG: Meghalaya observed the 'Jan Aushadhi Diwas' with the virtual inauguration of the 7,500th 'Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadi Kendra' (PMBJK) at NEIGRIHMS by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.

Among the dignitaries present during the programme were Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping & Waterways (Independent Charge) and Chemicals & Fertilizers Mansukh Mandaviya; Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma; State Health & Family Welfare Minister A.L. Hek and the Director of NEIGRIHMS (North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences).

The 'Jan Aushadhi Diwas' is annually organized on March 7. This year too, the occasion was celebrated across the country with Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacting with medicine store owners and beneficiaries through video conferencing at selected PMBJK stores.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Sangma said that under this scheme, the medicines available at the stores are cheap and of good quality, adding that the facility should reach everyone in the State. He pointed out that more often than not, medicine supply is less and are often expensive. Hence, medicines available through these stores will benefit all especially the weaker sections of the society and those who require medicines regularly. "A holistic approach to Healthcare is the way forward; and we look forward to opening more such stores across the State," he added.

Also addressing the gathering during the occasion, Union Minister Mandaviya said that these stores can also be opened with the collaboration of private hospitals and NGOs. He assured all support from the Ministry for those wishing to open such stores. He added that there should be awareness among the people about these stores so that people will be benefitted and they can easily procure medicines quickly, regularly and at reasonable prices.

The 'Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana' is an initiative of the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers. The endeavour provides quality medicines at affordable prices for all -- especially the poor and the disadvantaged through an exclusive outlet named as the 'Pradhan Mantri Bharitya Janushadhi Kendra'. The medicines are cheaper by 50% to 90% on the average in comparison to the market prices. It is also a good source of self employment with sustainable and regular earnings.

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