Delhi Govt offers free COVID-19 vaccines to all above 18 years: CM Kejriwal

NEW DELHI: Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal announced on Monday that the Delhi government has agreed to provide free COVID-19 vaccines to anyone over the age of 18, and that the procurement of 1.34 crore doses has been approved.

The Delhi government has agreed to provide free vaccines to everyone above the age of 18.

ALSO READ: US Determined To Aid India Amid COVID-19 Crisis: Joe Biden

“We gave our approval for the purchase of 1.34 crore vaccines today. We will make every effort to ensure that it is purchased as soon as possible and that it is administered to citizens as soon as possible,” said Kejriwal.

The Delhi CM also urged people to get vaccinated as soon as they are fit, claiming that people who have been vaccinated are less likely to contract the disease and those who do develop mild symptoms.

COVID-19 vaccines should have a single price, according to Kejriwal, who urged the Centre to lower the price.

He also slammed the vaccines' differing prices, saying: "One manufacturer claims it will cost Rs 400, while another claims it will cost Rs 600. The Centre is paying Rs 150 for it. This price, in my opinion, should be the same."

He also urged vaccine makers to lower costs, stating that it is time to support society rather than benefit. "This isn't the time to be making money. Now is the time to lend a hand " according to Kejriwal.

ALSO READ: India logs over 3.52 lakh fresh COVID-19 cases, 2812 deaths in 24…

On April 19, the Centre introduced a "liberalised" programme, allowing everyone over the age of 18 to get vaccinated from May 1. It's also made it possible for state governments and private hospitals to buy vaccines directly from manufacturers.

Manufacturers of Covid-19 vaccines will be able to supply 50% doses to state governments and on the open market, according to the central government, but they must make an advance price declaration before May 1.

Follow us on Facebook