Author: Bihar Say | Amrita | Bihar Sets a New National Benchmark in Free Medicine Distribution Once known for its crumbling health infrastructure, Bihar has now emerged as
Once known for its crumbling health infrastructure, Bihar has now emerged as India’s leader in free medicine supply—delivering over 611 essential medicines to patients across the state.
This remarkable transformation has brought affordable healthcare within reach of millions. And it’s not just a statistic; it’s a story of lives saved, families supported, and hope restored.
In 2006, government hospitals in Bihar offered just 47 types of medicines. Today, the list includes 611 medicines and 132 medical consumables and devices, covering treatments from viral infections to cancer care.
These medicines are available across government hospitals and health centres—absolutely free of cost.
This expansion means that patients no longer need to run to private pharmacies for critical medicines. Everything they need is often just a consultation away.
Over the last 20 years, the state’s budget for medicine supply has increased tenfold. From a modest beginning, the spending has now touched ₹762 crore in FY 2024–25.
As per official projections, it may reach ₹1100 crore by FY 2025–26. This investment has ensured uninterrupted supply, even of high-cost drugs.
The goal is simple—every patient should receive the medicine they need.
From OPD to IPD, from urban hospitals to rural clinics, free medicine distribution ensures access to:
Life-saving emergency drugs
Cancer, asthma, arthritis, and allergy medications
Antibiotics and anti-viral treatments
Blood-thinners and anti-allergic formulations
This coverage means patients don’t delay treatment due to cost. That’s a massive win for public health.
Bihar’s performance has been recognised nationally. According to the DVDMS (Drug and Vaccine Distribution Management System) portal, Bihar has consistently ranked #1 in medicine supply and distribution for the past five months.
This ranking reflects the state’s efficiency in managing procurement, inventory, and timely delivery to health centres.
Earlier, even a basic illness could push families into debt. Now, with free medicines readily available, patients no longer need to spend on costly prescriptions.
This shift has made healthcare more inclusive. It’s no longer about who can afford treatment, but about who needs it.
Here’s how the journey unfolded:
2006: Only 47 medicines available.
2008: Expanded to 33 medicines for OPD and 112 for IPD patients.
2023: 611 medicines and 132 consumables listed under free distribution.
Each phase of progress brought essential care to more people—and built trust in the public health system.
Bihar’s free medicine policy is more than a government initiative. It’s a public movement that’s improving health outcomes and saving lives.
It proves that focused reforms and consistent delivery can create change that touches every household.
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