Dibrugarh: Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated a Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendra at Milan Nagar in Dibrugarh on Sunday. The initiative aims to provide affordable generic medicines to the public, strengthening access to healthcare in the region.
Empowering Street Vendors Through PM SVANidhi
Earlier in the day, Sonowal attended a public programme on the Prime Minister’s Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme at Auniati Satra, Mankota Road. The event, organised by the Dibrugarh District Administration and Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation, brought together beneficiaries of the scheme.
Sonowal emphasised that the scheme embodies Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of financial empowerment for the poor and marginalised. “The primary goal of PM SVANidhi is self-reliance. It enables individuals to support their families with dignity,” he said.
Relief During the Pandemic
Recalling the hardships during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sonowal highlighted how the scheme provided timely relief to small traders and vendors. He explained that banks were instructed to extend loans in three phases ₹10,000, followed by ₹20,000, and later ₹50,000 for timely repayments. Borrowers also benefited from a 7% interest subsidy.
“The repayment mechanism of the scheme allowed many small traders to sustain their livelihoods successfully,” the Minister added.
Strengthening Local Development
The launch of the Janaushadhi Kendra further reflects the government’s commitment to improving both healthcare and economic resilience. The outlet will make quality medicines available at affordable prices, reducing healthcare costs for citizens.
Several dignitaries attended the events, including Assam Cabinet Minister and Dibrugarh MLA Prasanta Phukan, Khumtai MLA Chakradhar Gogoi, Duliajan MLA Terash Gowala, Lahowal MLA Binod Hazarika, Dibrugarh Deputy Mayor Ujjal Phukan, Deputy Commissioner Bikram Kairi, DMC Commissioner Joy Vikas, DDA Chairman Asim Hazarika, Zila Parishad Chairperson Pushpanjali Sonowal, and SKAC Chief Executive Member Tonkeshwar Sonowal. Beneficiaries and local citizens also participated in large numbers.
