Sri Vijaya Puram, Aug. 11: The Government of India has launched a new scheme to improve animal healthcare across the country by opening Pashu Aushadhi Vikray Kendras — medicine stores that will sell affordable, generic veterinary drugs to livestock owners. This move, under the Livestock Health and Disease Control Program, aims to make quality animal medicines easily available in rural and remote areas and reduce treatment costs for farmers.
These Kendras can be opened by registered Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samridhi Kendras (PM-KSKs) and Cooperative Societies. To qualify, the applicant must have at least 120 square feet of space (owned or rented), employ a registered pharmacist with a B. Pharma or D. Pharma degree, and hold a drug sale license from the State Drug Control Authority. Only one Kendra will be allowed per revenue block, with priority given to areas with large livestock populations.
The Government is providing strong financial support. Store operators will get a 20% margin on the selling price (excluding tax) of each medicine. A one-time incentive of Rs.1.5 lakh is available for Kendras opened in this UT. In addition, a monthly incentive of up to Rs. 20,000 will be given based on how much stock the Kendra maintains and how many medicines it purchases and sells.
Only medicines supplied by the Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Bureau of India (PMBI) can be sold at these centres. Billing must be done using the official Point-of-Sale (PoS) system. Ethno-veterinary products and certified animal feeds can also be sold. The scheme is jointly implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Ministry of Cooperation, and PMBI. Applicants must apply online through the DAHD portal and pay a fee of Rs. 5,000, which is waived for stores in aspirational areas.
This initiative not only helps farmers by cutting veterinary costs but also supports employment and entrepreneurship through cooperative societies and rural retail outlets. Those running or associated with PM-KSKs or cooperatives are encouraged to apply and take part in improving animal health in their communities.