Centre asks vaccine manufacturers SII, Bharat Biotech to lower COVID-19 vaccine price
On Monday, the central government has asked the Bharat Biotech and Serum Institute to lower the price of their vaccine, COVAXIN, and Covishield as the Indian government has given the green flag to vaccinate all the people aged above 18 from May 1st.
This came as many Chief Ministers and others had questioned the difference in the prices of vaccines available for government and private hospitals.
What is the current vaccine price quoted by SII, Bharat Biotech?
At present, Serum Institute has decided to give Covishield at the rate of Rs. 400 per dose to government hospitals and Rs. 600 per dose to private hospitals. Whereas, Bharat Biotech has announced COVAXIN pricing at Rs. 600 per dose to government hospitals and Rs. 1200 per dose to private hospitals.
In the month of January, DGCI gave approval for the emergency use of Covishield and Covaxin. The DGCI also gave approval to the Russian vaccine Sputnik-V for emergency use. Sputnik-V will be available in India from the month of May.
As per the new policy, the vaccine manufacturer has to release up to 50 percent of the supply to the governments and in the open market at a pre-declared price.
The government has also given approval to the states to procure additional doses of the vaccine directly from the manufacturers. As well as can run the vaccination drive to any category of people above the age of 18 years from May 1st.
On Sunday, Congress has accused the government of allowing vaccine makers to profiteering to the tune of Rs. 111 lakh crore. Also, the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has objected and bashed by saying this is not the time for making profits.
However, both the vaccines e.g. Covishield and COVAXIN are available to the government at the rate of Rs. 150 per dose.
Do read: COVID-19 Vaccination have no risk when taken during Periods
