PM discusses COVID-19 vaccine distribution strategies with states

NEW DELHI: During a virtual meeting, Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister of India, discussed modalities of vaccine distribution strategies and current COVID-19 response actions in place with states and union territories. He asked the state to guard against laxity and make continuous efforts in action plans and implementation with the aim to bring down the infection rate below five per cent and fatality rate below one per cent.

Modi asked the chief ministers in the meeting to set up steering committees and block-wise task forces to prepare for COVID-19 vaccine disbursal. He said that vaccines will only be available in India when they pass all the tests for validation of data and regulatory frameworks. He added that the states must keep their focus on making sure there is no unmanageable surge in cases, especially mentioning the eight states that have been reporting surge in new infection numbers in recent days.

Emphasizing the need for both safety and speed in vaccine distribution, Modi asked states to also start working on cold storage facilities. Basavaraj Bommai, Home Minister, Karnataka, said that for quick and effective distribution of vaccine, there is need for “meticulous preparation from the booth level by having in place vaccination centres and trained health workers or volunteers.”