Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has defended the state’s recent decision to discontinue Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) operating within government hospital premises. In a letter addressed to Union Health Minister JP Nadda, Rao clarified that the move was aimed at strengthening the free medicine distribution system within public health facilities, preventing situations where patients are directed to buy medicines instead of receiving them free of cost.

Key highlights

Discontinuation aims to protect patients’ rights

• The state’s goal is to ensure essential medicines are provided free at government hospitals.

• Doctors will now be directed to prescribe only those medicines available in hospital stock.

• This prevents patients especially the poor from being pushed towards paid JAK options despite free alternatives.

Letter issued in response to Union Minister’s concerns

• JP Nadda had raised concerns about the decision in a letter to CM Siddaramaiah.

• In response, Rao emphasized Karnataka’s commitment to universal, free access to medicines.

• The Karnataka State Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd (KSMSCL) ensures regular drug supply, with local purchase options available during shortages.

JAKs can still operate outside hospital premises

• The decision does not ban Jan Aushadhi Kendras from operating in Karnataka.

• Of 1,417 active JAKs in the state, only 184 are located within government hospital premises.

• Citizens are free to access JAKs outside of hospitals as per their choice.

Karnataka requests Jan Aushadhi medicine rates for state supply

• Rao has requested that the Pharma and Medical Bureau of India (PMBI) supply medicines to the state at JAK prices.

• This could help bolster the state’s free drug initiative and reduce costs for public health provisioning.

• The minister reaffirmed that the move is in the best interest of economically weaker patients who rely on public healthcare.

Karnataka’s decision to remove JAKs from government hospital campuses stems from an intent to protect patient rights and streamline the free drug supply system. While access to JAKs remains open outside government premises, the state aims to strengthen its own free distribution pipeline through KSMSCL and local procurement. The move has sparked dialogue at the central level, highlighting the ongoing balance between government welfare schemes and public sector efficiency.