PM Modi Lauds Scientists On COVID Vaccine Approval

Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) gave approval to Serum Institute of India's 'Covishield' vaccine and Bharat Biotech's 'Covaxin' for emergency use. This has paved the way for its roll-out and administration to millions in the country and Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded scientists.

"A decisive turning point to strengthen a spirited fight! DCGI granting approval to vaccines of @SerumInstIndia and @BharatBiotech accelerates the road to a healthier and COVID-free nation. Congratulations India. Congratulations to our hardworking scientists and innovators," the Prime Minister said in a series of tweets.

India's First COVID-19 Vaccine, Covishield Roll Out in Coming Weeks

Covishield, India's first coronavirus vaccine will roll out in the coming weeks, said Adar Poonawalla, CEO, Serum Institute of India (SII).

‘Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded scientists of the country after the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) gave approval to Serum Institute of India's 'Covishield' vaccine and Bharat Biotech's 'Covaxin' for emergency use.’

He further said it would make every Indian proud that the two vaccines that have been given emergency use approval are made in India.

"This shows the eagerness of our scientific community to fulfil the dream of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat, at the root of which is care and compassion. We reiterate our gratitude to doctors, medical staff, scientists, police personnel, sanitation workers and all Corona warriors for the outstanding work done, that too in adverse circumstances. We will remain eternally grateful to them for saving many lives."

Two COVID Vaccines Got Approved in India for Emergency Use

Eleven months after the first case of deadly coronavirus was detected in India, Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) V.Somani on Sunday approved Serum Institute of India's 'Covishield' vaccine and Bharat Biotech's 'Covaxin' for emergency use.

Prime Minister's remarks came after the Drugs Controller General of India Dr. V.G. Somani announced that the CDSCO has decided to accept the recommendations of the Subject Expert Committee and accordingly, vaccine of Serum and Bharat Biotech are being approved for restricted use in emergency situation after adequate examination.

Covishield and Covaxin have to be administered in two doses and can be stored at 2-8 degree Celsius. The Drugs Controller General of India has also granted permission to Cadila healthcare for phase 3 clinical trial in India.

This is a major relief for India which has the second highest number of infections in the world after the US. The Central government plans to vaccinate nearly 30 crore people in the first phase of drive in the next six to eight months.

Source: IANS