‘EXPANSION OF PMBJK THROUGH PACS’

The Ministry of Cooperation reports that medicines sold through Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) operating as Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) rose from Rs 1.44 crore in FY 2023‑24 to Rs 9.94 crore in FY 2025‑26. The number of such JAKs increased to a cumulative 836 by FY 2025‑26. To prioritize PACS‑JAKs in aspirational districts, remote rural areas, North‑Eastern states, Himalayan regions and islands, a one‑time grant of ₹2 lakh for IT infrastructure and furniture is provided, also extended to women, SC/ST, Divyangjan and ex‑servicemen. Owners receive incentives of 20 % of monthly purchases (capped at ₹20 000) and a 30 % trade margin, enabling an average annual income of over ₹35 000. Additionally, sanitary napkins are supplied at ₹1 per pad for women.