Covid-19: At least seven states decide to float global tenders for vaccines amid shortages

Delhi, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana on Tuesday joined the list of states that have decided to float global tenders for procuring coronavirus vaccines amid shortages of supply from domestic manufacturers, Bharat Biotech and Serum Institute of India. Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha have already issued such tenders, PTI reported.

“Till now, we had depended only on vaccines supplied by the Centre,” Karnataka Covid task force head and Deputy Chief Minister CN Ashwath Narayan told NDTV. “Now, we have been instructed to float the tender and to complete the process within seven days.”

Andhra Pradesh Principal Secretary (Health) Anil Kumar Singhal told PTI that the state government will issue a tender in a day or two for vaccines from foreign manufacturers.

“We have already placed an order for purchase of Sputnik V vaccine but Dr Reddys Laboratories, the local manufacturer, said it will give clarity on supplies only after May 15 after assessing the production capacity,” Singhal said. He, however, added that the foreign manufacturer will have to secure regulatory and statutory approvals from the Centre.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said that the Aam Aadmi Party government in the national Capital will also issue such tenders. However, he criticised the Centre for suggesting this…

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