Centre to provide free vaccine to all above 18; to buy 75% of vaccines

"Today, it has been decided that the government of India will also share the responsibility of 25 per cent of the work related to vaccination along with the states. This arrangement will be implemented in the coming two weeks where the Central and state governments will together make necessary preparations according to the new guidelines," the PM said.

He added that private sector hospitals can directly take 25 per cent of the vaccine being made in the country. The private hospitals can levy a maximum service charge of Rs. 150 for a single dose after the fixed price of the vaccine. The task of monitoring it will remain with the state governments.

The PM also added that bypassing every apprehension, India has launched not one but two made-in-India vaccines within a year.

"Our scientists have shown that India is not behind big countries. Today, when I am talking to you, more than 23 crore vaccine doses have been given in the country. Those who are creating apprehension about the vaccine, spreading rumours, are playing a big role with the lives of innocent people. There is a need to be cautious of such rumours," he added.

Mr. Modi also announced that the government has decided to extend the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana till Diwali. "During the pandemic, the government is standing by the poor as their partner. By November, free food grains will be made available in fixed quantity every month to more than 80 crore residents of the country," he said.