Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao today announced that the state government would administer Covid-19 vaccines to every person in the state, irrespective of their age, for free.
Speaking on the matter, the CM said, "Out of a total population of 4 crore people, 35 lakh people in Telangana have already been vaccinated. The remaining people, irrespective of their age, will all be vaccinated free of cost."
KCR issued instructions for the arrangement of the same to Chief Secretary Somesh Kumar and to the officials of the health department.
"This program will cost the state government more than Rs 2,500 crore. However, nothing is more precious to us than the lives of the people. Instructions for the preparation of the immunisation drive have already been given. Once my quarantine period is over, I will personally monitor this vaccination drive. Further, district-wise in-charges will be appointed to ensure that the drive is carried out effectively and efficiently," the CM stated.
He also reassured the people of Telangana that there would be no dearth of vaccines in the coming weeks as apart from Bharath Biotech, several other big pharma companies, including Reddy Labs, were coming forward to produce vaccines as well.
"There is no need to panic about the pandemic situation. We are working to ensure that there is no shortage of medical oxygen or Remdesivir. Steps are also being taken to ensure the availability of beds in hospitals across Telangana. Extensive sanitation drives are being organised as well. However, the public too must support our efforts to beat the pandemic, and must not behave carelessly in the coming days. Strict adherence to all Covid-19 safety norms is expected from one and all. Please refrain from organising or participating in mass gatherings. In fact, please do not step out of your homes unless it is necessary to do so," KCR asserted.
The CM himself is currently quarantining after he
tested positive for Covid-19 some days ago. Once he recovers completely, he plans to hold a high-level review meeting with the concerned officials to thrash out the details of the free immunisation program.