New Delhi (NVI): There will be no pressure on the drug regulator on the COVID-19 vaccine approval and the final call on allowing its emergency use approval will be made on scientific principles, VK Paul, Member, NITI Aayog today said.
Speaking at a session on Vaccine Magic and reimagining healthcare in a post COVID world, organized during FICCI’s 93rd Annual Convention, Paul said, “India is fully prepared for a vaccination initiative and is at the threshold of receiving a coronavirus vaccine.”
He stated that globally, 33 vaccines are in clinical trial phase out of which 10 vaccines are in the advanced trial phase.
“3 Indian vaccines are part of the top 10 global players. It is a proud moment to say that the key 3 indigenous players- Bharat Biotech-ICMR, Zydus Cadila and Serum Institute-Astra Zeneca are in clearance phase-2, which has created an Apollo 11 moment for India,” said VK Paul.
This gives us hope for manufacturing the vaccines not just for India but also for the world, he added.
He further shared that the key consideration while prioritizing the population for vaccine inoculation has been accessing to the population with risk to mortality and protection of our healthcare system as well as the COVID-19 response system.
In addition to this, He urged FICCI to work with the state government to increase healthcare spending, enhance the human resources in healthcare by optimizing the training in the private sector, bridge the huge healthcare infrastructure gap and build institutions for optimal disease control system as well as data management system.
He also asked the industry to work towards building mental health capacities in the country. He further called for higher private sector participation in ramping up health infrastructure.
Speaking on the efficacy of the trials and its impact during trial stages, Dr Krishna Ella, CMD, Bharat Biotech International Ltd, said that it has been crucial for the companies to protect the volunteers.
He further said that the trials are completely transparent, and all data are enclosed. All Indian manufacturers are 100 per cent sensitive and completely are to be trusted, he said.
-CHK