PM Modi concludes COVID vaccine tour, asserts 'India's duty to assist other countries'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his three-city tour on Saturday with his visit to Serum Institute of India (SII) in Pune where he undertook an extensive review of COVID-19 vaccine and its progress. Prior to that, Prime Minister visited Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedab and Bharat Biotech in Hyderab. On his visit to three institutes, PM Modi was briefed on progress of vaccine to battle COVID-19 as India remains a forerunner in its production and distribution. 

Currently, top vaccine candidates - Covaxin and Covishield - both are in Phase 3 trials whereas Zydus Cila is working on a DNA-based vaccine which commenced its Phase 2 clinical trials in August.

" scientists expressed joy that Prime Minister met m face to face in order to boost ir morale and help accelerate ir efforts at this critical juncture in vaccine development journey. Prime Minister expressed pride in fact that India’s indigeus vaccine development has progressed at such a rapid pace so far. He spoke on how India is following sound principles of science in entire journey of vaccine development, while also asking for suggestions to make vaccine distribution process better," Prime Minister's Office said in an official release. 

"Prime Minister stressed that India considers vaccines as t only vital to good health but also as a global good, and it is India’s duty to assist or countries, including nations in our neighbourhood, in collective fight against virus. He asked scientists to express ir free and frank opinion on how country could furr improve its regulatory process. scientists also presented an overview of how y are also developing various new and repurposed drugs to better fight COVID-19," release ded. 

Meanwhile, earlier this week, PM Modi h said that in order to be ministered to Indian citizens, COVID-19 vaccine will have to meet all necessary scientific criteria while emphasising that government will have to work toger at all levels to ensure that vaccination drive remained smooth, systematic and sustained. While interacting with Chief Ministers of all states and UTs, PM Modi specified that as vaccine research nears final sts, it is essential for government to closely monitor development and maintain contacts with all stakeholders. He also discussed modalities of COVID-19 vaccine delivery, distribution and ministration process during meeting. 

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