Amid crowded hospital corridors and anxious patients, young pharmacists are setting a new example of compassionate healthcare by ensuring affordable medicines for people in need. This change is clearly visible at the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) centre located within the busy campus of the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). Here, young pharmacists are helping patients access medicines prescribed by doctors at highly affordable prices, providing both health support and financial relief.
Commitment to Public Service
Senior pharmacist Sangeeta, a young professional associated with the centre since its opening in October 2024, joined the Jan Aushadhi mission with a strong desire to serve people. Every morning, she arrives at the centre with renewed energy, ready to assist patients and guide them in obtaining affordable medicines.
Patients’ Smiles Provide the Biggest Motivation
Sharing her daily experiences, Sangeeta says that many patients arrive at the centre with prescriptions in hand, often appearing tired and worried about the cost of medicines. However, their concerns quickly ease when they learn that the required medicines are available at significantly lower prices.
“The relief in their eyes and the smile on their faces after receiving affordable medicines becomes our biggest motivation to continue working,” she says.
150–200 Patients Served Daily
On an average day, nearly 150 to 200 patients visit the centre to purchase medicines. The morning hours are the busiest, with long queues forming soon after the centre opens.
Sangeeta and her team—mostly young staff members—work together to verify prescriptions, manage medicines, handle billing and explain dosage instructions to patients. Despite the busy schedule, their goal remains clear: ensuring affordable healthcare reaches everyone.
Young Pharmacists Driving the Mission
Another young pharmacist, Varun Agarwal, who recently completed his pharmacy studies, says he feels proud to be part of the initiative. He first learned about the Jan Aushadhi programme during his academic years and decided to contribute to the mission.
According to Varun, awareness about generic medicines has increased significantly in recent years. Many patients, especially senior citizens, now visit the centre with trust and confidence.
“Helping them access affordable medicines gives us immense satisfaction,” he says.
Affordable Medicines at IGH as Well
A similar effort is underway at the Jan Aushadhi centre in Indira Gandhi Hospital (IGH). Pharmacist and centre manager Piyush says it is a privilege for him to be associated with the mission.
The centre also serves around 150–200 patients daily, reflecting the growing trust of people in affordable healthcare services. Piyush notes that most patients arrive with concerns about medical expenses but leave the centre feeling relieved.
“This transformation in people’s outlook makes our work truly meaningful,” he says.
Strong Youth Participation
Young pharmacist Himanshu Kumar and his team are also actively contributing to the initiative. Along with four other young staff members, the team ensures smooth operations at the centre, with two employees handling billing and two managing medicine distribution.
Across Delhi, nearly 70% of the workforce at around 600 Jan Aushadhi centres consists of young professionals. Their participation highlights the growing role of youth in expanding access to affordable healthcare.
Through these centres, patients’ worries often turn into reassurance, while young pharmacists combine professional skills with a strong sense of social service.
