Bihar Tops Nation in Drug Supply for 11th Straight Month, Marks Historic Health Milestone

Patna: Bihar has secured the top spot in the country for drug supply and distribution for the 11th consecutive month, according to the Union government’s DVDMS (Drugs and Vaccine Distribution Management System) portal. State Health Minister Mangal Pandey hailed the achievement as a reflection of the state government’s consistent efforts to improve public healthcare under the “double engine government.”

As per the latest data, Bihar leads with 82.13 points, ahead of Rajasthan (78.61) and Punjab (73.28). Pandey said this milestone underscores Bihar’s commitment to ensuring timely and accessible healthcare, with continuous recruitment of health workers and construction of new hospitals.

He highlighted that since the launch of the free medicine distribution policy in 2006, the number of available medicines has grown from 47 to 611, with an additional 20 specialty drugs and 132 medical devices now provided free of cost. Today, every patient visiting government hospitals in the state receives essential and even life-saving medicines—free of charge—including treatments for cancer, asthma, arthritis, and blood-related conditions.

The minister also noted remarkable progress in maternal and child health. Maternal mortality has dropped from 365 (2005) to 91, while infant mortality now stands at 27, matching the national average. Under-five mortality is 29, and neonatal mortality is down to 19, both also in line with or better than national levels.

Institutional deliveries have risen significantly, home births have declined, and vaccination coverage has hit 95%, as per HMIS data. Bihar has also issued over 4 crore Ayushman Bharat cards, placing it third nationally in implementation of the scheme.

With infrastructure projects like the redevelopment of PMCH underway, Pandey said Bihar is on a transformative path toward a stronger and more inclusive healthcare system.