COVID-19 vaccine rollout gets a mega budget outlay of Rs 35,000 crore

New Delhi: The development of COVID-19 vaccines has found a big place in the Union Budget, 2021-22. A massive Rs 35,000 crore fund has been allocated for COVID-19 vaccine which is quite unprecedented in the entire history of biotechnology research and development of the country.

The Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman while pointing out that Prime Minister had launched the vaccination drive by crediting and thanking scientists, again expressed her gratitude for the strength and rigour of their efforts. She stated that India has two vaccines available and has begun medically safeguarding not only her own citizens against COVID-19, but also those of 100 or more countries.

“It is added comfort to know that two or more vaccines are also expected soon. I am committed to provide further funds if required”, the Finance Minister further said.

In addition, the Pneumococcal Vaccine, a ‘Made in India’ product, which is presently limited to only 5 states, will be rolled out across the country. This will avert more than 50,000 child deaths annually, the Finance Minister informed during the Budget speech.