Venkaiah Naidu, Vice President of India and Chairman, Rajya Sabha has hailed the emergency authorisation of two COVID vaccines as India's leap of science that benefits humanity at large. Writing on social media, Naidu stressed that this is an indication of how Atmanirbhar Bharat can benefit not only Indians but the larger humanity.

Naidu said; "India is in the forefront of shielding humanity from the deadly disease by demonstrating its ability to mass produce the much needed vaccine and offer its own version as well. India's indigenous vaccine (Covaxin) has certain unique features based on the whole virus approach. This is a commendable achievement and all concerned deserve kudos for foresight perseverance and fruition of spirited efforts."

Noting that development and administering of vaccine is guided by a stringent regime of protocols and strict monitoring of attendant data without any compromise, the Vice President referred to the regulator's assurance to the nation of due diligence before giving nod to the two vaccines, Covishield and Covaxin.

Naidu observed that the country rose in unison in 2020 in handling the COVID situation with the national leadership both in the Centre and in the States/UTs working with a sense of unity of purpose and action which resulted in significantly enhancing the required capacities to fight the pandemic and containing the same. Naidu stressed on the need to demonstrate the same resolve in taking the vaccine to the people during this year.