Vax absolutely vital: PM

Says India proud of its scientists for developing vaccines to defeat pandemic

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday described Covid vaccines as "absolutely important to save lives and defeat the pandemic", noting that this "once-in-a-lifetime" crisis has brought tragedy and sufferings at doorsteps of many and caused huge economic impact.

Delivering the keynote address on the occasion of "Vesak Global Celebrations" on Buddha Purnima, he said the pandemic has impacted every nation, adding that the planet will not be the same after this and the events in future will be remembered as either pre or post-Covid.

He, however, added that there have been many noteworthy developments. "Most importantly, we have the vaccine which is absolutely important to save lives and defeat the pandemic," Modi said, asserting that emergence of jabs within a year of Covid outbreak shows power of human determination and tenacity. India is proud of its scientists for developing vaccines, he said.

Modi also highlighted the issues of climate change and terrorism, saying one must not lose sight of the other challenges faced by humanity while fighting the pandemic. Priyanka questions govt Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday asked the government about the shortage of vaccines in the country in her series of ‘jimmedar Kaun’ (who is responsible) posts.

She asked questions from the government on her Facebook page -- "when the PM is saying that they were ready with the plan of vaccination, why did the government only order 1.60 cr vaccines and why did the government export vaccines at the cost of Indians, and why India, largest manufacturer of the vaccine, have to import?"