Covid-19 vaccine tracking: India can have vaccine by March-April, says Health Minister
Last updated on February 21st, 2023 at 12:15 pm
Health Minister: On Monday, Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan relayed that Indian population can avail Covid-19 vaccine next year by March and April. He also said that the Union Government has planned to make the vaccine available and administered to over 25 crore people in India by July and August next year.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan said during a press meeting, “In the first 3-4 months of the next year, there is a possibility that we will be able to provide vaccine to the people of the country. By July-August, we have a plan to provide vaccines to around 25-30 crore people and we are preparing accordingly,”
Furthermore, as told by PMO (Prime Minister’s Office), Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked via video conferences with Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd Pune, Biological E Ltd Hyderabad, and Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd Hyderabad. During the virtual meeting, PM Modi lauded efforts by researchers of these firms in developing the Covid-19 vaccine to tackle the global crisis. PM also has reportedly asked the three firms to provide their inputs and suggestions related to the regulatory processes and related issues.
The Centre has also announced a stimulus package, third in line, worth INR 900 crore. The stimulus package is aimed for Covid-19 Vaccine Development Mission- “Mission COVID Suraksha” and the grant will be given to Department of Biotechnology (DBT) for Research and Development of Indian Covid-19 vaccines.
A total of 10 Covid-19 vaccine candidates have been backed by DBT. Out of these 5 candidates are in human trials, including Russia’s Sputnik V.
Furthermore, expressing worry about infection spread as farmers are protesting on a large scale on Indus, Tikri and Ghazipur border, Dr. Harsh Vardhan has urged all the protesting farmers and people to follow the Covid-19 guidelines and protocols. “It is necessary for all people to wear masks and create social distancing,” he said.
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