Sat May 17 15:58:04 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

The Karnataka state government has halted the opening of new Jan Aushadhi Kendras (generic medicine stores) within state-run hospitals. This decision follows complaints that patients were being prescribed medicines from outside pharmacies, despite government hospitals being required to provide free medication. The government intends to ensure hospitals purchase generic drugs from the Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Units of India (BPPI) and dispense them free of charge to patients. Existing Jan Aushadhi Kendras within hospitals will have their agreements terminated as per the existing MOU. Establishments outside the hospitals will continue.

**News Article:**

**Karnataka Halts New Jan Aushadhi Stores in State Hospitals Amid Free Medicine Concerns**

**Bengaluru, May 17, 2025** – The Karnataka government has abruptly stopped the opening of new Jan Aushadhi Kendras (generic medicine stores) on the premises of state-run hospitals. A Government Order (GO) issued on May 14th directs the Health Commissionerate to reject 31 pending applications for new stores.

This decision comes in response to growing concerns and complaints that patients were being issued prescriptions to purchase medicine from external pharmacies, despite government hospitals being obligated to provide free medication.

To remedy the situation, the government has instructed hospitals to prioritize the purchase of generic medicines directly from the Bureau of Pharma Public Sector Units of India (BPPI). These medications are to be dispensed to patients free of charge. The Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd. has been tasked with negotiating special rates for generic drugs purchased from BPPI.

Existing Jan Aushadhi Kendras operating within hospital premises will have their agreements terminated according to timelines defined in their memorandums of understanding.

While the establishment of Jan Aushadhi Kendras outside government hospitals will continue, the GO explains the need for a “comprehensive review” of the policy for starting Jan Aushadhi Kendras, prompting the halt on new in-hospital locations. Permissions already granted for 207 Jan Aushadhi Kendras in primary health centers remain unaffected. The changes are expected to improve access to free generic medication at government hospitals.

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