Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday announced free vaccination for all people above 18 years of age.
Addressing the people of the State through video conferencing, Patnaik informed that the State government will shell out Rs 2000 crore from the exchequer to bear the cost of free vaccination for people from 18 to 44 years of age.
The major announcement by the Odisha government will help universal vaccination of around 2 crore beneficiaries in the State.
“If we are not aware of our responsibilities, the government will not be able to fight against the pandemic all on its own. I request everyone to realise this grave situation that we are currently going through. For me each and every life is precious,” Patnaik said.
“I request you with folded hands to religiously follow all Covid appropriate protocols. Wear masks, maintain social distancing at all costs. Until very necessary do not go out of the house,” the CM urged in his speech.
He made it clear in his address that the State government does not favour enforcing lockdown and shutdown-like restrictions at this moment because such curbs are dealing massive setbacks to the economic prospects of the State.