India
India, the Pharmacy of the World
How India came to supply about a fifth of the world’s generic medicines, what Jan Aushadhi stores are, and what it means for patients after treatment.
Generic medicines contain the same active ingredient as the original brand and must meet the same quality standards. India makes a great many of them.
The Numbers
- 3rd by volumeIndia is the world’s third-largest producer of medicines by volume, and 11th by value.
- About 20%of the world’s generic medicines, through some 60,000 generic brands in 60 therapeutic categories.
- USD 30.5 billionof pharmaceutical exports in 2024–25, to 191 countries; about half go to highly regulated markets such as the US and Europe.
- About 60%of UNICEF’s vaccine supplies, and 90% of the WHO’s measles vaccine demand, come from Indian makers.
Source: Government of India factsheet, PIB, 21 March 2026.
Generic Medicines Under One Roof: Jan Aushadhi
The Government’s Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana runs stores that sell quality generic medicines at lower prices. The March 2026 factsheet counted more than 18,646 Jan Aushadhi Kendras, with a basket of 2,110 medicines and 315 medical devices and consumables; a government statement in June 2026 put the network above 19,200 stores.
What This Means for Our Patients
After treatment in India, many patients continue on medicines prescribed here. We help you order them correctly from a hospital pharmacy or licensed chemist, with the prescription and the letters customs may ask for, and you arrange collection with your own courier. See Medicines from India.
A Word of Care
Generic does not mean “any”. Your doctor chooses the medicine and the dose, and your own country decides what you may import for personal use. Check before you order.
Questions People Ask
Are Indian generic medicines safe?
Generic medicines must contain the same active ingredient and meet quality standards. Buy only from licensed pharmacies, on a valid prescription.
Can I import medicines from India to my country?
Rules differ by country. Many allow a limited personal supply on prescription, and some medicines are not allowed at all. Check with your medicines regulator first.
Sources
Checked in October 2026. Rules and figures change — confirm on the official page before you travel.
