India lifts vaccine appointment time restrictions... 16.6 million people receive first dose

On the 1st of this month (local time), Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a COVID-19 vaccine developed in his country. (Photo by AP/Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Woo Su-yeon] The Indian government has decided to remove time restrictions on vaccination at medical facilities to accelerate COVID-19 vaccine administration.

According to Indian media on the 4th, Health Minister Harsh Vardhan stated on Twitter the previous day, "The government has decided to lift time controls on vaccinations to speed up the vaccination process."

India's vaccination campaign, which began on January 16, had been conducted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. However, following this government decision, hospitals will be able to autonomously adjust vaccination hours, including early mornings or late nights.

The Indian government started vaccinating the general public aged 60 and above or those aged 45 and above with chronic comorbidities this month, following healthcare workers and military personnel.

Currently, the Indian government has approved emergency use of two vaccines: the India-made AstraZeneca vaccine and the locally produced Bharat Biotech vaccine. Both vaccines require two doses.

As of today, approximately 16.6 million people in India have received their first vaccine dose, and the government plans to vaccinate 300 million people by July or August.