Prime Minister Narendra Modi is addressing an all-party meeting virtually with leaders of various political outfits and top union ministers to discuss the novel coronavirus pandemic situation in India.
Addressing the meeting, called by Modi, the PM said that Indian scientists are very confident of succeeding in their endeavor of making a Covid vaccine. “The world is keeping a watch on the cheapest and safe vaccine. That is why the world is watching India,” PM Modi said.
Experts believe that COVID vaccine will be ready in the next few weeks. As soon as scientists give a green signal, vaccination will start in India. Healthcare, frontline workers & elderly person suffering from serious diseases will be given priority in vaccination: PM Modi pic.twitter.com/drikqdZf0S
— ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2020
“Eight vaccines are in different stages and three are in key trial stages. Experts believe that the world is weeks away from a vaccine,” the Prime Minister said.
Amid the discussions of who would be provided vaccine first, PM Modi said that the country will begin the Covid-19 vaccination program after experts give a nod.
“In the first phase, healthcare workers, frontline workers, and old people suffering from serious conditions would be vaccinated. We’ve one of the largest networks with experience in vaccination programs. With the help from state governments, other needed cold chain storages and logistical support are being measured. Special software has also been developed for vaccine stock and real-time information,” PM added.
He further urged all leaders to send their suggestions in writing adding that they would be considered seriously.
I appeal to leaders of all political parties to send your suggestions in writing. I assure you that they will be considered seriously: Prime Minister Narendra Modi#COVID19 https://t.co/D1WWapSxkm
— ANI (@ANI) December 4, 2020
On concerns of the cold chain distribution and logistical availability for distribution of vaccines, the Prime Minister reassured parties that India has a great and well-experienced cold-chain distribution network and measures are being taken to strengthen this network further.
PM Modi also said, “Teams of Central and state governments are working together for vaccine distribution. India has the expertise and capacity in vaccine distribution and we fare better compared to other nations in this matter. We have a very big and experienced network in the field of vaccination. We will fully exploit it.”
Our scientists are very confident of succeeding in their endeavor of making the coronavirus vaccine. That is why the world is watching India.
Even as we are on the doorstep of a vaccine, it is of crucial importance to maintain all precautions, social distancing, and follow mask protocols, the PM reminded the nation.