The Niramaya Scheme, launched in May 2015 by the Government of Odisha, aims to provide free essential medicines to patients registered at government health institutions. It operates through 527 Drug Distribution Centres (DDCs) across the state, including medical colleges, district hospitals, and community health centers. Medicines are dispensed as per prescriptions, with extended provisions for chronic cases. The scheme is implemented by the Odisha State Medical Corporation Limited (OSMCL), which oversees procurement, supply chain management, and centralized inventory systems via the e-Niramaya platform.  

Despite significant investments in infrastructure and IT systems, challenges persist. A recent CAG report highlighted inefficiencies in e-Niramaya utilization, including poor stock management and drug wastage due to expiry. Surveys supported by the Health System Transformation Platform (HSTP) revealed underutilization, with many patients still relying on private chemists for medicines due to stock-outs and inadequate drug availability at government facilities.  

While the scheme has improved access to medicines, quality control, supply chain delays, and reliance on private chemists hinder its full impact, emphasizing the need for strengthened implementation and monitoring.