Jan Aushadhi Kendra Franchise: Cost, Registration, Profit Guide

Being a franchisee of Jan Aushadhi Kendra is not only a business opportunity but also an opportunity to provide healthcare to millions of Indians at a fraction of the cost and to create a sustainable source of income. The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) initiative provides entrepreneurs with a unique opportunity to make an impact and generate profits simultaneously.

With more than 14,000 functional stores in India and rising demand for affordable generic medicines, this government-supported franchise model offers low investment, high returns, and ongoing support. You believe you can make a difference in business and contribute to the health of your community, no matter whether you are a pharmacist, an entrepreneur, or someone caring about the accessibility of healthcare. The Jan Aushadhi Kendra franchise is the gateway to significant business success.

Why Jan Aushadhi Kendra is a Popular Franchise Opportunity

Government-Supported Program: The full support of the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers.
Low Investments, High Returns: A ₹2.5-5 lakh investment yields 20-50% returns.
Increasing Market Need: The generic drugs cost half to ninety per cent of the branded drugs.
Financial Incentives: ₹5 lakh government incentive (maximum), plus a special grant for women, SC/ST, and Divyang entrepreneurs.
Social Impact: Change the lives of millions of people who can now afford quality medicine and create your image.
Regular Revenue: Repeat clients and necessary product sales will provide a steady stream of income.
Minimal Competition: Planning the strategic location with a 1.5 km distance between the stores.
Training & Support: Full operational instructions of the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI).

About Jan Aushadhi Kendra

What Is Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendra (PMBJK)?

The Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendra (PMBJK) is a flagship program launched by the Government of India in November 2008 to provide quality generic medicines at affordable prices. This scheme, implemented by the Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), formerly known as the Bureau of Pharma PSUs India (BPPI), is designed to reduce healthcare expenses for economically disadvantaged groups.

As of September 2024, 13,822 active Jan Aushadhi Kendras are operating nationwide, stocking more than 2047 drugs and 300 surgical supplies. These pharmacies sell medicines at 50-90% lower prices than branded drugs, without compromising product quality to WHO-GMP standards, making basic healthcare affordable to all Indians, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Who Can Apply? | Eligibility Criteria

For Individuals:

Needs to have D. Pharma or B. Pharma, or hire a qualified pharmacist.
Registered medical practitioners, physicians, and unemployed pharmacists.
Should be registered to provide pharmacist registration proof with the State Pharmacy Council.

For Organisations:

There are charitable institutions, trusts, societies, and NGOs that may apply.
Self-help groups and individuals in private hospitals.
Should hire holders of B.Pharma or D.Pharma degree.
In the case of Government-Nominated agencies:
Central Government or State-nominated Agencies.
Ideally suited to government hospital premises and medical colleges.
Famous NGOs and charitable agencies preferred.

General Requirements:

Minimum of 120 sq. ft. business space (owned or rented for a 3-year term)
Minimum ₹3 lakh investment capacity.
Valid letter on space allotment or lease agreement.
Ability to procure licences for drugs.

Jan Aushadhi Kendra Franchise Cost Breakdown

Initial Investment Components:

Space Rental/Purchase: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 (varies by location)
Interior Setup & Furniture: ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000
Initial Medicine Stock: ₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000
Computer & Software: ₹30,000 – ₹50,000
Signage & Branding: ₹20,000 – ₹30,000
Application Fee: ₹5,000 (waived for women, SC/ST, Divyang, ex-servicemen)
Drug License & Permits: ₹10,000 – ₹20,000

Detailed Cost Table

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Details
Application Fee	₹5,000	Non-refundable (exempted for special categories)
Space (Minimum 120 sq.ft)	₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000	Rent/purchase for 36 months minimum
Interior & Fixtures	₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000	Shelving, display, furniture
Initial Stock	₹2,00,000 – ₹3,00,000	Generic medicines from PMBI
Technology Setup	₹30,000 – ₹50,000	Computer, printer, internet, software
Branding & Signage	₹20,000 – ₹30,000	PMBI-approved store branding
License & Registration	₹10,000 – ₹20,000	Drug license, GST, business permits
Total Investment	₹2,50,000 – ₹5,00,000	Approximate range

Investment & Profit Overview

Jan Aushadhi Kendra is also among the most cost-effective pharmacy franchises in India, with a minimum investment of about ₹2.5 to 5 lakh to open a franchise. Operating margin is 20% on MRP (excluding taxes) for all medicines sold, with an additional 30-50% profit margin on allied medical products.

The government offers significant financial assistance, including a ₹5 lakh incentive and a 15% monthly purchase incentive (maximum ₹15,000 per month over 36 months). An additional ₹2 lakh grant is provided to special-category entrepreneurs. Franchisees can break even in 11-18 months, with a start-up profit of ₹40,000-60,000 per month after initial setup and average monthly sales of ₹2-3 lakhs. Stable revenue growth and sustainable profitability are supported by consistent demand for basic medicines.

Step-by-Step Jan Aushadhi Kendra Registration Process

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to janaushadhi.gov.in
Click on the applications section.
Link: https://janaushadhi.gov.in/apply-for-kendra
Create an account using your email and cell phone number.

Step 2: Fill out the Application Form.

Get to the section of Forms and Guidelines.
The PMBJK application form.
Check out everything that is required.

Step 3: Filled Application Form.

Type of applicant (individual, organization, or government agency)
Complete all the required fields correctly.
Select the location details you prefer.

Step 4: Prepare the Necessary Documentation.

Degree in pharmacy or employment evidence of a pharmacist.
Documents related to space ownership or lease agreements.
Registration of pharmacists with the State Pharmacy Council.
The identity evidence (Aadhaar, PAN card)
Cheque details and bank account details.

Step 5: Pay Application Fee

Send 5,000 non-refundable by online payment gateway.
Exempted on behalf of women, SC/ST, Divyang, and former service men applicants.
Retain receipt of payment records.

Step 6: Submit Application

Upload all documents online
Print / final application form
Forward physical copy to PMBI head office as necessary.

Step 7: Site Inspection

PMBI officials will inspect the proposed location.
Confirm adherence to space and access needs.
Verified distance of 1.5 km with existing stores.

Step 8: Receive Approval

Wait to be approved (usually 30-60 days)
Sign a deal with PMBI/nominated agency.
Acquire a drug license in the name PMBJK.

Step 9: Set up Store

Obtain drugs from registered PMBI suppliers.
Install computer and software systems.
Install furniture and fittings as per recommendations.

Step 10: Launch Operations

Total training offered by PMBI.
Starting with the entire inventory.
Begin serving customers at low medication costs.

Requirements & Documentation

Essential Documents needed:

Educational Qualification: D.Pharma degree certificate or B.Pharma degree certificate or employment contract with a qualified pharmacist.
Registration of Pharmacists: State Pharmacy Council valid certificate of registration.
Space Documentation: Document of ownership of a property (deed or lease agreement, at least 36 months), letter of space allotment.
ID Documents: Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID.
Documents Certificate: SC/ST certificate, disability certificate, proof of women entrepreneur (where required)
Financial Documents: Bank account statements, cancelled cheque
Drug License: Drug license application ( may be filed after the approval)
Business Registration: GST registration (where needed)
Photographs: Current passport-sized photographs.
Undertaking: Statement of PMBI compliance.

Physical Requirements:

Minimum 120 sq. ft. business space
The location should be accessible, preferably on a main road.
Adequate lights and ventilation.
Medical warehouses.
1.5 km to the nearest Jan Aushadhi Kendra.

Support & Contact Information

Official Headquarters:

Address: Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), 8th Floor, Videocon Tower, Block E-1, Jhandewalan Extension, New Delhi – 110055
Helpline Number: 1800-180-8080 (Toll-Free)
Official Website: janaushadhi.gov.in
Application Link: https://janaushadhi.gov.in/apply-for-kendra

Support Provided by PMBI:

Extensive store training and inventory maintenance training.
Promotional support and marketing material.
Constant provision of medicines at competitive prices.
Purchases incentives of up to ₹15,000 monthly.
Software and billing system technical support.
Quality control and compliance instructions.
Periodic performance checks and audits.
Connection with other franchisees.

Additional Resources:

An internet-based portal for managing orders and stock.
Frequent notification of new products and schemes.
Redressal mechanism of grievance.
Business development seminars.

Tips for Success

Place/Accessibility: Select a high-traffic location near hospitals or residential areas where elderly/disabled patients can easily access. Confirm the 1.5km distance specification to existing PMBI stores before installation.
Inventory & Stock Management: Maintain a full stock of all medicines listed in the PMBI, track fast-moving goods to ensure timely ordering, and adhere to FIFO to avoid losses from expired goods.
Excellence in Customer Service: Recruit well-trained, skilled pharmacists who will offer the right medication advice. Store environment: keep the store neat and tidy to build trust and ensure repeat business.
Marketing & Awareness: Place generic vs. branded price-comparison charts, display, attend PMBI awareness campaigns, distribute informational leaflets at the local level, and use social media to promote, in accordance with regulatory guidelines.
Financial Discipline: Maintain accurate records, manage cash flow through the efficient use of the 30-day credit period, maximize government incentives through regular bulk buying, and reinvest profits prudently.
Compliance & Community Trust: All licenses must be current; PMBI guidelines must be followed; proper medication storage facilities must be maintained; health camp attendance must be ensured; and long-term relationships with the local healthcare organization must be maintained.

Conclusion

The Jan Aushadhi Kendra franchise is an ideal combination of business prospect and social responsibility within the expanding healthcare industry in India. This franchise can be started with a low investment of ₹2.5 lakhs, generous government support with incentives up to ₹5 lakhs, and a 20-50% profit margin, making it a good pay and a significant difference to people’s lives.

With the government investing in network expansion in underserved regions and raising awareness of generic medicines, new franchisees have a favorable growth path. As a pharmacist who is an entrepreneur or investor with a purpose-driven business, the Jan Aushadhi Kendra franchise offers financial security, social good, and the gratification of contributing to healthcare accessibility in India. The first step is to visit janaushadhi.gov.in today and participate in this healthcare revolution.

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FAQs

May I operate a Jan Aushadhi Kendra franchise even though I am not a pharmacist?

No, you cannot manage a store without a pharmacy degree. But as an entrepreneur, you may own the franchise and employ a qualified pharmacist with a D.Pharma or B, a pharmaceutical degree, to run the store day-to-day. You should show evidence of registration of the pharmacist by the State Pharmacy Council during the application or final approval.

What is the break-even point of a franchise of Jan Aushadhi Kendra?

The average break-even period ranges from 11 to 18 months, depending on your location, monthly sales volume, and operational efficiency. Most franchisees recoup their initial investment during this period, with average monthly sales of 2-3 lakhs and government subsidies, and begin to earn a steady income thereafter.

Are there any ongoing fees or royalties to be paid?

No, there is no continued franchise fee or royalty to PMBI. Submit a one-time, non-refundable application fee of 5,000 (waived for women, SC/ST, Divyang, and ex-servicemen). You buy drugs at will, straight at PMBI at licensed prices, and retain your sales profit margins.

Am I allowed to sell any other products other than Jan Aushadhi medicines?

Yes, you can market related medical items in chemists, such as OTC pharmaceuticals, surgical supplies, and health supplements, but PMBI must not distribute these. Nevertheless, all PMBI-listed medicines must be kept in full stock as your core product to meet franchise requirements.

Does it fit within a rural or small-town franchise?

Absolutely! Rural and underserved regions tend to receive faster government approvals because the scheme prioritizes access to healthcare in these areas. Rural Jan Aushadhi Kendra franchises are typically less competitive and provide essential healthcare services to local populations, making them a viable and socially influential business opportunity.