Today India is celebrating 1 year of the world’s largest vaccine drive. The Covid-19 pandemic has forced India to undertake this massive drive.
According to government of India data as of January 15, India ranks top in vaccination. It has administered over 156 crore doses of vaccine. The USA, which ranks second, is way behind India. It has administered 52 crore doses till date.
Japan (20 cr), Germany (16 cr) and Russia (15 cr) are at the third, fourth and fifth spots, respectively. India is also among the top countries in the world to fully vaccinate its 18 plus population. So far, India has fully vaccinated 69 per cent of its population.
Under its “vaccine maitri” programme, the country has supplied 11.54 cr doses to 79 nations.
India achieved yet another feat in the world’s largest vaccine drive by administering over 3.3 crore doses to children of age group – 15 to 17 years. The country has also taken a lead in administrating booster doses to the frontline and healthcare workers. India has administered 28 lakh booster doses in five days.
PM Narendra Modi congratulates nation
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has led the congratulatory messages. Today “1YearOfVaccineDrive” trended as a top trend for most part of the day.
The PM posted, “I salute each and every individual who is associated with the vaccination drive. Our vaccination programme has added great strength to the fight against COVID-19. It has led to saving lives and thus protecting livelihoods.”
“When the COVID-19 pandemic first struck, we did not know much about the virus. However, our scientists and innovators immersed themselves in developing vaccines.
“India feels proud that our nation has been able to contribute to fighting the pandemic through vaccines,” he said.
“At the same time, the role of our doctors, nurses and healthcare workers is exceptional. When we see glimpses of people being vaccinated in remote areas, or our healthcare workers taking the vaccines there, our hearts and minds are filled with pride,” he added.
BJP leader Amit Malviya, said, “India, with over 1.35 Bn people, was an unlikely candidate to lead the fight against a global pandemic. But that is exactly what it did under the leadership of PM Modi. After #1YearOfVaccineDrive, it has administered 1.56 Bn doses and vaccinated 70% of its eligible population!” Many people posted messages hailing the country.