HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Jan 23: A new “Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra (PMBJK)” was inaugurated at Gossaigaon SS Ltd., marking a significant step toward improving access to affordable healthcare for rural populations.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Masanda M Pertin, District Commissioner of Kokrajhar, as the chief guest.
The initiative, under the ‘Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana’ (PMBJP), aims to offer high-quality generic medicines at affordable prices, reducing healthcare costs for underserved communities. Operated through Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS), the scheme ensures sustainability by providing incentives and profit margins.
At the event, 10 Xerox machines were distributed to PACS to enhance their functioning as Common Service Centres (CSCs).
This move aligns with the government’s effort to expand PACS activities, integrating services such as fertilizer retailing, petrol pump dealerships, Kisan Credit Card (KCC) operations, and CSC services, all under the theme ‘Sahakar Se Samridhi’.
Masanda M Pertin, in her address, applauded the shareholders and emphasised the importance of empowering PACS to drive the cooperative movement and benefit rural communities.
CHD Cooperation Jayanta Kherkatary highlighted the Ministry of Cooperation’s initiatives to transform PACS into multipurpose societies, fostering economic growth at the grassroots level.
The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including EM, BTC, Wilson Hasda, joint secretary of Cooperation, BTC, Pami Brahma, and Gossaigaon SDO (C) Mridul Shivahare, among others.
The establishment of the PMBJK and the strengthening of PACS as CSCs underscore the government’s commitment to improving rural healthcare and expanding access to essential services.
This initiative is poised to bring significant benefits to the people of Gossaigaon and surrounding areas.