New Delhi (NVI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi today directed health authorities to scale up Covid-19 testing and sero-surveys and said the facility to get tested regularly and speedily at a low cost must be available to all at the earliest.
Chairing a review meeting of the research and vaccine deployment ecosystem against the Covid-19 pandemic, the Prime Minister also underscored the need for continuous and rigorous scientific testing and validation of traditional medicine treatments.
Reviewed aspects relating to research and vaccine development during a meeting earlier today. Reiterated GOI support for the vaccine development eco-system, which has been working tirelessly over the past few months. https://t.co/TwjO6Z8iJV
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 15, 2020
He said both sero-surveys and testing must be scaled up, and added that testing – regular, speedy and inexpensive – must be available to all at the earliest.
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, NITI Aayog Member for Health Dr V K Paul and other senior scientists and officials attended the meeting.
Modi appreciated the efforts made by Indian vaccine developers and manufacturers. He said the Centre would provide support towards development of the vaccines.
“Regulatory reform is a dynamic process, and experts in every current and emerging domain should be used by the regulator proactively, as many new approaches have emerged,” said Modi.
For future delivery of the vaccines, Modi reviewed various mechanisms for adequate procurement, and technologies for bulk-stockpiling, filling vials for distribution and ensuring effective delivery.
He further said that the country was resolved to provide “cost-effective, easily available and scalable solutions for testing, vaccine and medication, not only for India but for the entire world.”
Modi, however, said vigilance should be kept up against the pandemic.
He stressed on the need for continuous and rigorous scientific testing and validation of traditional medicine treatments. Modi appreciated the efforts of Ministry of AYUSH for conducting evidence based research and providing reliable solution in this difficult time.
-CHK
