STATE TIMES NEWS
New Delhi: India achieved a major milestone in its vaccination programme against COVID-19 as the cumulative doses administered surpassed the 200-crore mark on Sunday, 18 months after it began the drive to combat the deadly epidemic that has claimed over 5.25 lakh lives in the country so far.
In a tweet, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the people of the country on bringing about this significant feat. He called India’s vaccination drive unparalleled in scale and speed .
The UNICEF termed it a phenomenal accomplishment and a testament to the grit and dedication of India’s health workers, while the WHO too praised the effort.
“India has set a new record by completing the target of 200 crore vaccinations in just 18 months. Hearty congratulations to all countrymen on this achievement,” Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in a tweet.
“Powered by the spirit of Jan-Bhagidari, India’s vaccination journey under PM @NarendraModi Ji’s inspiring leadership has emerged as a mighty epitome of Sabka Prayas,” he said, adding that this extraordinary achievement will be etched in history .
According to provisional reports, a total of 2,00,00,15,631 doses had been administered across the country.
The top five states where highest number of doses have been administered are Uttar Pradesh (34,42,69,865), Maharashtra (17,05,70,069), West Bengal (14,40,95,285), Bihar (13,98,78,169) and Madhya Pradesh (12,13,21,534).
The health ministry said 98 per cent of India’s adult population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine while 90 per cent have been fully vaccinated.
“India creates history again! Congrats to all Indians on crossing the special figure of 200 crore vaccine doses. Proud of those who contributed to making India’s vaccination drive unparalleled in scale and speed. This has strengthened the global fight against COVID-19,” Prime Minister Modi said.
According to government data, 82 per cent of adolescents aged 15 to 18 years have also been vaccinated with the first dose since the vaccination for this age group began on January 3 while 68 pc have got both the first and second dose.
Eighty one per cent of those aged 12-14 years have taken the first dose while 56 pc are fully vaccinated.