Back‘Vaccine will be available soon’
Modi said vaccination will begin as soon as scientists give the green signal, adding that the central government is working closely with state governments to identify the priority groups for vaccination
PremiumA covid-19 vaccine will be available in India within a few weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday, but warned that just like any other medicine, it could cause side-effects in some people.
“The covid-19 vaccine could also cause side-effects or adverse events in some persons, but even common and popular medicines also lead to adverse events during treatment," Modi told an all-party meeting called to discuss India’s vaccination strategy.
At the same time, he cautioned against rumours about vaccines, saying it would be against India’s public interest and national interest, as he called upon leaders to spread awareness about the need for vaccination.
Modi assured the meeting that the government will consider only science while finalizing a covid-19 vaccine for the country.
Modi said vaccination will begin as soon as scientists give the green signal, adding that the central government is working closely with state governments to identify the priority groups for vaccination.
The remarks came a day after the UK became the first Western country to approve a covid-19 vaccine, with its regulator clearing Pfizer Inc. and BioNTech SE’s shot.
The prime minister said the central government is developing a comprehensive vaccination strategy. “The world is looking towards India for the development of a safe and affordable vaccine," he said.
Modi shared his experience of a recent visit to vaccine manufacturing facilities in Ahmedabad, Pune and Hyderabad. “About eight potential vaccines, currently in different stages of trials, will be manufactured in India, which includes the three indigenous vaccines," the PM said.
India’s vaccine distribution expertise, capacity and experienced and vast network for vaccination will help in streamlining covid vaccination. Collaboration with state governments will be established for additional cold chain equipment and other such logistical requirements, he said.
A National Expert Group that includes technical experts and officials of both the central government and state governments has been constituted to shoulder the responsibility of the campaign, and it will take decisions collectively as per national and regional requirements.
“Will the central government bear the cost of vaccination programme or will state governments have to share the cost? Are we going to buy vaccine from other countries since we may not have the capacity to meet our large requirements?" former prime minister and JD(S) leader H.D. Deve Gowda asked during the all-party meeting, according to his Twitter page.
Gyan Varma and Anuja contributed to this story.
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