Major pharmacy chains, hospital-based medical stores, and Jan Aushadhi Kendras are scheduled to remain open on May 20, according to reports. The decision follows steps taken by representatives of the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), who recently meet the national drug regulator to raise concerns, including those related to e-pharmacies. In parallel, several state-level pharmacy associations have indicated they will not participate in a proposed nationwide shutdown on that date, committing to maintain medicine availability for the public. Both accounts describe the measures as aimed at preventing disruptions in access to medicines and related healthcare supplies during May 20. The outlets frame the opening of these outlets as part of a coordinated approach by pharmacy and medical-store networks, including government-backed Jan Aushadhi Kendras and facilities linked to hospitals, to ensure continuity of pharmaceutical services despite the shutdown proposal. The reports do not provide further details on whether other categories of retail establishments will remain open or on any specific regulatory conditions.