New Delhi, Jan 31 (Representative) Addressing a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament, President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday lauded the role of Covid-19 vaccines manufactured indigenously stating they have been helping the world fight the pandemic saving crores of lives. “So far, eight (Covid-19) vaccines have been approved for emergency use in the country. Three vaccines being manufactured in India have also got approval from the World Health Organization for emergency use. These vaccines manufactured in India are playing an important role,” he stated. The President also appreciated the efforts of the Indian pharmaceutical industry for proving its “mettle” during the Covid-19 pandemic and recognised its increasing global reach.
“The Indian pharma sector has also proved its mettle during the Corona period. Presently, products of Indian pharma companies are reaching more than 180 countries,” Kovind said. However, the President also noted the wider range of opportunities for the sector in scientific research and mentioned the Centre’s scheme to support this cause. “However, there is a wide range of opportunities for India in this sector. The PLI scheme announced by my government for the pharma industry will further expand the opportunities, and will also provide impetus to research,” he said. The President also called India’s Covid-19 vaccination drive a rare feat that has put the country among the leading nations who are fighting the pandemic successfully. “An example of India’s capability in the fight against Covid-19 is evident in the ongoing Covid vaccination programme. We have surpassed the record of administering more than 150 crore vaccine doses in less than a year.
Today we are among the leading countries in the world with the highest vaccine doses administered,” he said. “Success of this campaign has given a shield to the country providing enhanced protection to our citizens, while also boosting their morale,” the President added. However, Kovind also acknowledged the lives lost amid the pandemic while appreciating the efforts of the government and frontline warriors who stand together to fight such adversity. “The Covid pandemic affected the entire world and in India too, many of our loved ones were snatched away from us. In these circumstances, the Central government, state governments, local governments and administration, our doctors, nurses and health workers, our scientists and entrepreneurs have worked as a team. For this, I appreciate every health and frontline worker, and every citizen,” he said.