Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) kendras added nutraceuticals to their product basket in March 2022. Which of the following is NOT included under nutraceuticals?

Correct option is B

• Nutraceuticals are food products that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. They often contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds.

Examples of nutraceuticals:

• Vitamin supplements
• Protein powder
• Immunity bars
• Dry fruits are considered a whole food source of nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. While they offer health benefits, they are not typically classified as nutraceuticals in the same way as fortified foods or supplements.
• Any food-related item that has health and medical benefits is referred to as a nutraceutical.
• They also aid in the treatment and prevention of several illnesses.
• Protein powders, protein bars, malt-based dietary supplements, immunity bars, vitamin supplements, etc. are examples of nutraceutical items.
• A medical facility called Pradhan Mantri Janaushadhi Kendra was established as part of the programme to provide everyone with access to high-quality medications at reasonable costs.
• At the moment, PMBJP Kendras are offering residents generic medications that are easily accessible, standardised, and economical.
• Currently, 240 pieces of surgical equipment and 1,451 medicines are available at PMBJP Kendras.
• By the end of March 2025, the government wants to see their number reach 10,500.

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP):

• The Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers' Department of Pharmaceuticals introduced the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) in 2008.
• It was reintroduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015.
• The Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI), a society registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1960, is in charge of carrying out the PMBJP.
• Aim of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Project (PMBJP)
• ​To make generic medications accessible to everyone in India at reasonable prices.
• To guarantee everyone has access to high-quality medications, especially the underprivileged and disadvantaged.
• To dispel the misunderstanding that expensive drugs must be of good quality.