India is set to enhance youth participation in public health and pharmacy services through the launch of the Jan Aushadhi Kendra (JAK) Experiential Learning Program. Beginning June 1, 2025, the initiative will integrate young volunteers into the functioning of Jan Aushadhi Kendras, which serve as key distribution centers for affordable, quality generic medicines across the country.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the Department of Pharmaceuticals, has developed this 15-day initiative under the national campaign ‘Seva Se Seekhen – Learn by Doing’, fostering experiential learning for India’s youth workforce. Volunteers drawn from platforms such as MY Bharat, NSS, MYB Kendra, pharmacy colleges, and youth organizations will participate in essential operations, assisting in daily tasks, inventory management, customer interactions, and awareness drives on generic medicines and public health literacy.
The program is designed to bridge youth development with India’s healthcare system, ensuring practical skill-building alongside community service engagement. It will provide real-world exposure to medicine distribution, logistics, and financial processes, boosting employability and professional readiness. Participants will gain firsthand experience in inventory management, record-keeping, business discipline, and healthcare accessibility, fostering a strong sense of social responsibility.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports reaffirmed that this initiative aligns with India’s broader vision for empowering youth as active contributors to national development, ensuring they acquire critical skills through direct participation in meaningful public service sectors. The government encourages stakeholders to support the program, recognizing its potential to create a robust, skilled, and service-oriented workforce for India’s expanding healthcare infrastructure.
