Set up On-site Registration Services for the Third Phase, writes CM Bhupesh to PM Modi

Chhattisgarh: Ahead of the third vaccination phase, CM Baghel wrote to the CM of India in the context of vaccination facilities to the economically and socially backward sector of the state. The letter requested PM Modi to allot onsite registration pits at the centre for the socially backward sector which cannot avail registrations on the COWIN Portal.

Mr. Bhupesh wrote,” registration for vaccination has started from April 28 on the Covin portal. So far, 1.7 crore people of the country have registered. The availability of vaccines is limited. A large number of registrations and non-availability of vaccine doses in that ratio can lead to problems at the vaccination centre.” Focusing primarily on the backward caste, CM Bagel stated the deprivation of the caste will affect the nation tremendously.

He also stated about the shortage of vaccines in the state. As instructed by the government the state authorities have procured 25 lakh doses of COVAXIN and COVISHIELD each. While Bharat Biotech reported only 3 lakh doses available for the month of May. The CM expressed concern over the shortcoming of the state government in regards to the third vaccination phase that commences on 1st May as announced by the Centre.

However, the state has not yet declared the initiation of the drive as it falls short of doses for its 1crore20 lakh citizens. Dr Amar Singh Thakur, State Immunization Officer, Chhattisgarh estimates that 45% of the state’s population will be covered under the age group of 18 to 45 years which is about 1.30 crore people only. A cost estimate of Rs 350 to 400 crores is speculated for vaccinating the remaining 91 lakhs.