The Covid-19 vaccination drive in the country will start from January 16.
The decision was taken at a meeting on Saturday in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi reviewed the status of COVID-19 in the country and preparedness of states and union territories for vaccination against the disease.
A PMO release said that priority will be given to the healthcare workers and the frontline workers estimated to be around three crores followed by those above 50 years of age and the under-50 population groups with co-morbidities which number around 27 crores.
“After the detailed review, it was decided that in view of the forthcoming festivals including Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Magh Bihu etc., the COVID-19 vaccination will start from January 16, 2021,” a PMO release said.
The Prime Minister took a detailed and comprehensive review of the status of COVID management covering various issues.
The Prime Minister was briefed about the preparedness status of the Centre in close collaboration with the state and UT governments for the rollout of the vaccine.
The release said vaccination exercise is underpinned by the principles of people’s participation (jan bhagidari), utilizing experience of elections (booth strategy) and Universal Immunization Program (UIP).
