In the year 2017, Central government started Jan Aushadhi Yojana for the benefit of poor patients in two hospitals of Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC). But 15 days ago, a letter to close this center was given by none other than the health officer of NMC, Dr. Bahirwar. Giving the reason for floating a new tender for Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which proved beneficial for poor patients, have been closed for the time being.
Poor People’s Welfare Society had submitted a proposal to NMC for starting a Jan Aushadhi Kendra. NMC had approved the proposal as per rules and completed the e-tender process and provided space to this NGO. A Kendra was started in Prabhakarrao Datke Hospital, Mahal and Indira Gandhi Hospital of NMC in Gandhinagar in 2017. This organization had also purchased furniture and other necessary items to start the pharmacy. The electricity bill was paid by the organization. With medicines being available to the poor at low prices, essential medicines were easily available to the hospital doctors.
There was a ban on the sale of medicines of any outside company at these centres. Besides, it was also made clear in the agreement that action to close the centre will be taken by the Central government only. Instead of starting more centers of Jan Aushadhi Yojana, the NMC has closed the two centres.
Mangesh Gajbhiye, member of Poor People’s Welfare Soci- ety, said, “Under this scheme, the agreement had to be renewed every three years.
The organization had done follow- up with the health department of NMC in this regard. But it was not renewed from the year 2020. A letter was received from the health officer regarding closure of the center in August 2023, whereas a letter to vacate the room came 12 days ago. The centre has been closed since then.”
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