Evaluating the Role and Challenges of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana in Enhancing Healthcare Access: A Social Scientific Study of Palamu and Gumla Districts in Jhaarkhand

Abstract

India's healthcare system is dedicated to delivering quality medical services to its vast population of over 1.3 billion. It operates through a complex framework that integrates both government and private healthcare providers. This dual system is designed to address the medical needs of citizens, particularly in rural regions where access to quality care remains a challenge. To enhance healthcare accessibility, ensure affordability, and encourage the use of generic medicines, the 'Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Yojana' was introduced. As a result, Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been expanding rapidly across the country, yielding significant positive outcomes. However, despite these advancements, several challenges continue to hinder the scheme’s success. These obstacles not only slow the expansion of essential healthcare services but also widen the gap in healthcare quality between urban and rural areas. Although efforts to achieve equitable health outcomes are intensifying, the financial burden of medical treatment persists as a pressing concern.