Highlights from PM Narendra Modi’s address to the nation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, during his address to the nation, announced that all Indians above 18 years of age will get free vaccines from June 21.  In other important decisions, he announced a uniform vaccine procurement policy and extension  till Diwali of free ration scheme, which benefits around 80 crore Indians. 

Also Read: This is what PM Modi said about India’s vaccination programme in his address

Here are key highlights from PM Modi’s address:

*State governments will not have to spend any money now on vaccines; Centre will provide free vaccines for everyone above 18 years.

* Private hospitals can continue to procure 25% of vaccines, but their service charge has been capped at Rs 150 per dose over fixed price of vaccine.

* The Centre will be taking back total control of vaccination and this will be implemented in next two weeks. The Centre will provide free vaccines to states.

*  The government has also decided to extend Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana till Diwali. 80 crore poor will be provided free ration, under the scheme.

*Relaxation in Corona curfew shouldn’t make people think COVID-19 has ended. We must continue to follow COVID protocols to win this battle, the PM said.

* Seven firms in India are in the process of producing different types of vaccines. Trial of 3 more vaccines is in advanced stage.

* Research is continuing on a nasal spray vaccine, which if successful can significantly boost India’s vaccination drive.

Also Read: PM Narendra Modi to address the nation at 5 pm today

* It is commendable that India has produced two desi vaccines in one year, the PM added.

*COVID protocol most important weapon against a virus that is unseen and that keeps changing.