New Delhi: About 30 vaccines are in different stages of development in India, Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr.Harsh Vardhan informed here today. He said two of these vaccines were in the most advanced stage of development – COVAXIN developed through ICMR-Bharat Biotech collaboration and COVISHIELD from the Serum Institute of India.
The Serum Institute, world’s largest vaccine manufacturer, is conducting trials for the vaccine developed by Oxford University. Both are in Phase-III clinical trial stage.
“Our premier institution – the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – is involved in the trial of COVID-19 vaccines’ executions. India is also hosting clinical trials for all the major vaccine contenders,” the Minister said while speaking at the First Virtual SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) Young Scientist Conclave, today.
Dr.Harsh Vardhan further informed that pharma giant, Dr Reddy’s Laboratories, will distribute the Russian vaccine in India after conducting final-stage human trials and receiving regulatory approval.
Dr. Harsh Vardhan referred to Indian Government’s announcement of a 12 crore US$ grant for COVID-19 vaccine research. “This is being provided for COVIDSuraksha Mission (mission for protection from COVID) and is to be used purely for research and development in this field”, he said and added that with the help of Government support, more than 100 startups had provided innovative products and solutions to tackle COVID-19.
– globalbihari bureau
