Rohit Shishodia
Amid reports of successful development of Covid vaccines in the US and other parts of the world, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that the government is keeping track of each development.

“We are in touch with Indian vaccine developers and manufacturers. We are also in touch with global regulators, governments of other countries and multinational organizations and international companies,” said Modi while interacting with chief ministers of Covid affected states,”

“It is not certain whether there will be one, two or three doses of vaccine. It is also not decided what will be the price of the vaccine. We still don’t have answers to these questions,” added Prime Minister Modi.

The PM has said that states are required to establish cold storage facilities for Covid vaccine. “I urge states to send detailed plans soon how they plan to take vaccine to lowest levels. It will help us in making decisions as your experiences are valuable I hope for your pro-active participation. Vaccine work is ongoing but I request you there should be no carelessness,” he added.

The PM stressed that this mission of Covid vaccination of each citizen is like a national commitment. Each state and stakeholder has to work as a team to ensure that this mission is systematic, smooth and sustained effort.

The PM further said, "Though 2 India-based vaccines are at the forefront, we are working with global firms also. Even after drugs being available for years, some people have adverse reactions. So a decision needs to be taken on a scientific basis,” he added.

The PM said that there is a need to focus on localized spread of the disease. We have to maintain a positivity rate below 5%. We have to analyze the cause of each death. There is a need to form teams at small levels," he added.

Modi further said that behaviour of people has changed during the spread of the disease phase wise. Initially, it was seen that some people committed sucide after contracting the disease.

"After that stigma came due to which people did not reveal about their problem, after that people started believing that the virus does not remain deadly as it was earlier, therefore, they thought if they contract the virus, they can cure it. They took it casually. Now, people are informing others that they have contracted the virus," he added.