The Government of India on Monday said that all persons in India aged 18 and above will be eligible to receive the coronavirus vaccine from May 1. So far, only those aged above 45 are eligible. The criteria has been expanded keeping in view the demand from various sections.

The Centre also said that the States are now permitted to directly procure vaccines from private manufacturers. An official statement reads that up to 50% of vaccine supply from manufacturers can be released for procurement by States and in the open market at a pre-declared price.

Vaccine manufacturers like SII have been seeking incentives to scale up production. The Modi government has given a nod, and allowed them to attract new and international players.

Customizing the vaccine programme to suit local needs is yet another key decision taken by the Centre.