In a major development, Odisha has crossed the landmark of administering 1 crore doses of Covid-19 vaccine, becoming the 12th state in the country to achieve this significant milestone. While over 80 lakh have taken the first jab, the rest have completed two doses of the vaccine. On Monday (June 21), the state government kicked off a mass Covid-19 vaccination drive under the National Covid Vaccination Programme.
The move comes amidst the central government’s aim to vaccinate as many people as possible to defer a possible third wave in the country. Earlier the State Health Department had directed the Collectors and Municipal Commissioners to give priority to people waiting for the second dose. The state has set a target to inoculate 3 Lakh beneficiaries everyday to those who are 18 plus. Currently, Odisha has 10 Lakh Covishield and 5 Lakh Covaxin doses.
As per reports, the mass vaccination programme would be carried out with 50 per cent on-line booking and 50 per cent on-site booking. For conducting the vaccination programme, Odisha has planned 5 sessions in each Block and Notified Area Councils. The state has also planned 10 sessions in each Municipality and at least 20 in each Municipal Corporation to cover as many people as possible during the drive.