Free Covid-19 vaccine for folks above 50? Harsh Vardhan decodes govt’s plan

Image Source : PTI (FILE) In first section of vaccination, authorities supplied free vaccine to three crore folks 
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has knowledgeable {that a} plan is in place to start vaccination drive for round 27 crore Indians above the age of fifty. Vardhan stated that three weeks from now, the federal government will begin giving doses of coronavirus vaccines to the precedence group. However, a call on whether or not the vaccine will probably be administered freed from value is being mentioned by the knowledgeable group, he stated.

Vardhan on Monday stated that the choice on administering the vaccine free to the precedence group will probably be taken after consulting with the states.

“As far as the intention of the government is considered, the Finance Minister, in her Budget speech, promised to keep Rs 35,000 crore for vaccination… she said that if there is a need the government might consider (increasing) it further,” he stated.

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“The strategy of 26 crore is being deliberated upon by the expert group. As soon as the decision on these aspects is taken (it will be communicated)…” he instructed reporters when requested whether or not vaccine for the precedence group will probably be given freed from value.

In first section of vaccination, authorities supplied free vaccine throughout the nation to most prioritised beneficiaries that included 3 crore folks (1 crore healthcare and a couple of crore frontline staff).

Vardhan additionally stated that India crossed the 85-lakh mark in administering the vaccine – 98,118 beneficiaries got the second dose. He stated that 80-85 % of frontline staff have been vaccinated.

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About 18-19 coronavirus vaccine candidates are in numerous scientific trial phases and could also be accessible within the coming months, he stated. 

India has accredited two vaccines — Covaxin developed by Bharat Biotech and Covishield from the Oxford/AstraZeneca secure being manufactured by the Serum Institute of India — for emergency use within the nation.

With India supplying the COVID-19 vaccine to a number of international locations, in response to Vardhan, about 20-25 nations will avail the vaccine.

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