At least two studies on the genome of SARS-CoV-2 or the novel coronavirus in India suggested that the deadly virus is genetically stable and there is no major mutation in the virus, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) confirmed on Saturday.
Both pan-Indian studies have been conducted by the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT).
The PMO also added that three coronavirus vaccines are in advanced stages of development in India, of which two are in Phase II and one in Phase III.
In addition, he said that Indian scientists and research teams are collaborating and strengthening research capacities in neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Maldives, Mauritius, Nepal and Sri Lanka.
The PMO’s statement came as Narendra Modi reviewed the coronavirus pandemic situation in the country today and preparation for the delivery, distribution and administration of vaccines. The meeting was attended by Health Minister Harsh Vardhan, PM Chief Secretary, NITI Aayog members, Senior Scientific Advisor, senior scientists, PMO officials and other government departments.
Calling for complete preparedness to ensure rapid access to virus vaccines for all citizens, Prime Minister Modi suggested developing a vaccine delivery system in line with conducting surveys and disaster management, while also involving all levels of government and citizen groups.
The prime minister also insisted on continued social distancing and appropriate Covid behavior such as wearing the mask, regular hand washing and hygiene, especially in the wake of the upcoming festival season.
PM Modi also noticed a steady decrease in daily cases and growth rate. At the same time, he also warned against any complacency in the face of the decline and called for continued efforts to contain the pandemic.
Modi further indicated that, taking into account the geographic spread and diversity of the country, access to the vaccine should be quickly guaranteed.
He stressed that every step in logistics, delivery, and administration must be rigorously implemented.
Meanwhile, the number of coronavirus cases in India has exceeded 74 lakh, while the number of people who have recovered from the infection has exceeded 65 lakh, bringing the recovery rate to 87.78%, according to data updated by the Union Ministry of Health on Saturday.
The death toll from coronavirus rose to 1,12,998 and the virus claimed 837 lives in one day, while the infection count rose to 74,32,680 with 62,212 new cases reported, data updated at 8 a.m.
Active cases of coronavirus infection fell below eight lakh for the first time in a month and a half, the ministry said.
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