Countries across the globe are in a race to develop a COVID-19 vaccine. India too is doing the same. But with the rising cases it will be a challenge for Central and State governments for a smooth rollout. Keeping this in mind the Centre has asked States to set up panels. This is to co-ordinate and oversee COVID-19 vaccination drive. It would help in ensuring minimal disruptions in other routine healthcare services.
In a letter to chief secretaries, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said Covid-19 vaccine introduction would most likely span over a year. It will have multiple groups being included sequentially starting from healthcare workers.
Union Health Secretary said, “It is anticipated that initially the supply of vaccine will be limited in view of huge demand, hence prioritisation of socio-demographic groups will be done for vaccination and subsequently other groups will be included.”
He added, “Every state has been asked to set up a steering committee under the chief secretary (must meet every month); state task force under the principal secretary (must meet fortnightly) and district task force under the district magistrate (must meet weekly) to oversee the preparation of vaccination priority lists and cold storage facilities.”
The committee is also expected to establish a recognition mechanism for the district/urban ward/block that performs the best, reported The Times of India.
As reported by PTI, The government also stressed on the importance of tracking and dispelling of rumours on social media which could impact the community acceptance of coronavirus inoculation.
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