India produces 60 percent of the world vaccines: ICMR former chief

Published On 2025-03-13 10:56 GMT   |   Update On 2025-03-13 10:56 GMT

Thiruvananthapuram: India emerged as a vaccine superpower with the development of Covaxin and is now a producer of 60 per cent of the world's vaccinesProf Balram Bhargava, former Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said.

Bhargava delivered this keynote address BRIC-Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) on Tuesday on the theme 'Accelerate Action' as part of RGCB's Women's Day celebration.

"Sixty per cent of the world's vaccines are now manufactured in Pune and supplied globally. In 2021, we exported vaccines to more than 100 countries, underscoring our potential in vaccine research and development," Bhargava said in an RGCB press release.

Vaccine development-from funding to preclinical studies, clinical trials, laboratory research, and physiological studies-has been implemented seamlessly with government support. A National Task Force comprising 40 scientists from various research domains was formed to act swiftly in times of crisis, he noted.
During the Omicron wave, India had one of the lowest death rates compared to countries like Russia, the UK and the USA, as over 95 per cent of the population was vaccinated. This demonstrates how effectively the government, along with the healthcare system, managed the crisis, he said.
As per a PTI report, Dr Sharmila Bapat, Director of BRIC-National Centre for Cell Science, Pune, and a pioneer in cancer stem cell research, encouraged women to pursue careers in scientific research.
She also highlighted the availability of numerous schemes designed to support women researchers.
RGCB Director Prof Chandrabhas Narayana emphasised the significant role played by women faculty and research students at RGCB.
"One of our faculty members is currently leading the Indian delegation working on cervical cancer eradication. Many of our women students are now pursuing postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions abroad," he said.
Tags:    
Article Source : with inputs

Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.

NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.

Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Similar News