New Delhi, Feb 6: The Centre has invited online applications to expand the network of Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) across the ountry including Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh as part of its plan to open 25,000 such outlets nationwide by March 2027, under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana. The health ministry in the parliament said that as of December 31, 2025, a total of 17,990 Jan Aushadhi Kendras were operational across the country, including in the Union Territory of Ladakh, while 3,135 outlets had been closed, according to official data.
To encourage wider coverage in remote and difficult terrain, the government provides a one-time special incentive of Rs 2 lakh for setting up JAKs in Himalayan regions, including J&K and Ladakh, as well as in other priority areas.
Applications from individual entrepreneurs, NGOs, societies, trusts, and private entities from all districts of the two Union Territories have been invited through the Janaushadhi portal. The government said the scheme follows a franchise-like model, with the continuation of outlets dependent on local demand and viability. The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), which implements the scheme, said it is supporting low-performing Kendras through hand holding measures, workshops, and engagement with local doctors to improve outreach and sales.
